How should I store beta blockers?

All beta blockers should be stored at room temperature. Manufacturers recommend the following:

• Store atenolol¹ and nebivolol² at room temperature between 20° and 25°C (68° and 77°F).
• Store carvedilol^3,4 and metoprolol⁵ at 25°C (77°F), and kept in between 15° and 30°C (59° and 86°F) at all times.
• Store labetalol tablets⁶ and vials⁷ between 2° and 30°C (36° and 86°F).

According to the National Council on Patient Information and Education, heat and moisture from the shower, sink, and bath can decrease potency and cause premature expiration.⁸ Store beta blockers in a tight, light-resistant container.^1-7,9-13 Always keep beta blocker pills or vials away from children’s reach.

^References

1. Tenormin [package insert]. Conovanas, PR: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; 2011.
2. Bystolic [package insert]. St. Louis, MO: Forest Pharmaceuticals; 2011.
3. Coreg CR [package insert]. Ciales, PR: GK Pharmaceuticals Contract Manufacturing Operations; 2008.
4. Auro-Carvedilol [package insert]. Ontario, CA: Aurobindo Pharma Inc.; 2013.
5. Metoprolol succinate extended-release tablets [package insert]. Sodertalje, Sweden: AstraZeneca AB; 2006.
6. Trandate [package insert]. Oakville, ON: Prometheus Laboratories Inc.; 2010.
7. Trandate Injection [package insert]. San Diego, CA: Prometheus Laboratories Inc.; 2010.
8. National Council on Patient Information and Education. Safe medicine storage & disposal. BeMedWise. http://www.bemedwise.org/medication-safety/drug-storage-and-disposal. Accessed August 13, 2018. 2008.
9. Sectral [package insert]. Bridgewater, NJ: Reddy Pharmaceuticals; 2007.
10. Lopressor [package insert]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2008.
11. Levatolol [package insert]. Smyrna, GA: Schwarz Pharma; 2010.
12. Innopran XL [package insert]. Cranford, NJ: Akrimax Pharmaceuticals; 2003.
13. Coreg [package insert]. Ciales, PR: GK Pharmaceuticals Contract Manufacturing Operations; 2008.