What expiration date should be assigned to a magic mouthwash that contains water?

The assigned expiration date for a magic mouthwash that contains water should be 14 days. This timeframe is based on the stability and potential for microbial growth in products that are compounded with water. Water provides a medium for bacteria to grow, and without a preservative, the shelf life is significantly reduced.

In the case of compounded preparations like magic mouthwash, which often includes active ingredients to soothe oral lesions or conditions, the presence of water means that the preparation is susceptible to degradation and contamination over time. The 14-day expiration is a standard guideline that ensures the safety and efficacy of the product, minimizing the risk of using a formulation that may harbor bacterial growth or have decreased potency.

Products that do not contain water or contain only stable, dry ingredients might have longer expiration dates, but any compounded formulation that includes water typically follows the 14-day guideline to ensure patient safety.