How long do prescriptions last?

Most prescriptions are valid for one year from the date they are written, according to University of Notre Dame Health Services and Express Scripts. Prescriptions also expire when no further refills remain.

According to the University of Notre Dame Health Services, some prescriptions are subject to legal restrictions that cause them to expire in six months. Some prescriptions may not be refilled at all, and any additional medication requires a new prescription. If no refills remain or a prescription is expired, the University of Notre Dame Health Services recommends that patients call the prescribing physician's office to request a new prescription.