Explain the term "drug stability."

The term "drug stability" specifically refers to the extent to which a drug maintains its physical and chemical properties over time. This includes factors such as the drug's potency, purity, and safety throughout its shelf life. Stability is critical because it ensures that the drug remains effective and safe for use until its expiration date. Factors affecting drug stability can include temperature, humidity, light exposure, and the formulation of the drug itself.

Understanding drug stability is essential for professionals in the pharmacy field, as it guides storage conditions, handling procedures, and proper inventory management. If a drug loses stability, it may lead to degradation or a reduction in effectiveness, potentially resulting in suboptimal patient outcomes or safety issues. Therefore, maintaining drug stability is a key responsibility for pharmacy technicians to ensure the quality of medications provided to patients.