Does Plan B Expire? What You Need to Know About Emergency Contraception

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on February 5th, 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • Plan B typically remains effective for about four years from the manufacture date

  • Expired emergency contraception may lose potency and effectiveness

  • Always check the expiration date before using Plan B

  • Proper storage is crucial for maintaining medication integrity

Emergency contraception like Plan B provides an important backup option for preventing unintended pregnancy. Understanding its shelf life and storage requirements can help ensure you're prepared when you need it most.

Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that prevents pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. While the medication is designed to be effective for several years, it's not immune to degradation over time.

Understanding Plan B's Shelf Life

Most Plan B medications have a standard shelf life of approximately four years from the manufacture date. However, this duration can vary slightly depending on the specific brand and manufacturing conditions. Birth control interactions with storage and environment can impact the medication's overall effectiveness.

Proper Storage Recommendations

Correct storage is critical for maintaining Plan B's effectiveness. Experts recommend:

  • Store at room temperature (68-77°F)

  • Keep away from direct sunlight

  • Avoid humid environments

  • Do not store in bathrooms or kitchens

  • Keep in original packaging

Signs of Expired Medication

Identifying expired Plan B involves several key indicators:

  • Visible changes in pill appearance

  • Altered packaging condition

  • Past printed expiration date

  • Unusual smell or discoloration

Potential Risks of Using Expired Emergency Contraception

Using expired Plan B can potentially:

  • Reduce pregnancy prevention effectiveness

  • Potentially compromise medication safety

  • Provide unreliable contraceptive protection

Expiration Factors

Impact on Medication

Temperature Exposure

High risk of potency loss

Humidity

Can degrade active ingredients

Direct Sunlight

Accelerates chemical breakdown

Storage Conditions

Directly affects medication integrity

Replacement and Availability

If your Plan B has expired, obtain a new one.

The Bottom Line

Understanding Plan B's shelf life is crucial for effective emergency contraception. Always check expiration dates and store medications properly. Care you can trust. Doctronic is clinically validated with 99% treatment plan alignment.

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