Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

Which medication should be refrigerated?

1. Biaxin suspension

2. Augmentin suspension

3. Miacalcin

4. Thyrolar

The correct answer is: Biaxin suspension

Biaxin suspension should be refrigerated to maintain its stability and effectiveness. This medication, an antibiotic containing clarithromycin, is sensitive to temperature changes. If left at room temperature, the suspension may degrade more quickly, reducing its efficacy. Refrigeration ensures that the suspension remains properly mixed and does not separate, providing the patient with the correct dosage and the intended therapeutic effect. Other medications listed have different storage requirements. For instance, Augmentin suspension is typically stored in the refrigerator but can also be kept at room temperature for a limited time after reconstitution, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. Miacalcin (nasal spray) has specific storage instructions that do not typically involve refrigeration, and Thyrolar (a thyroid hormone replacement) can also be stored at room temperature. Understanding these storage guidelines is essential for maintaining medication integrity and patient safety.