Daily medication is a regular part of many of our daily lives, but what do we do when the need arises to dispose of medication that is expired or that we don’t use anymore? Going about this process correctly is of critical importance and can have serious consequences otherwise. Read on to learn more about how to safely dispose of unused medications.
Drug Take Back Programs
The best and safest way to dispose of unused medications is through a local drug take back program. This is where you are able to put the unused medication into the hands of a professional who knows how to dispose of it- after you give it to them, it’s out of your hands! Easy as that. Talk to a local law enforcement official, your pharmacist, or click this link to find a drop off location close to you (U.S. Food and Drug Administration)!
Disposing at Home
If utilizing a drug take-back program is not a possibility for you, there are a couple of ways to safely dispose of unused medications at home when done with great care. First, there are some medications that can be flushed down the sink or toilet (and should be flushed immediately, not thrown away!). If your medication is one of the ones that can be flushed, it will be on the label or on the information pamphlet that came with the medication. Still not sure? Click this link for the official list of flushable medications (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).
There are many medications that are not on the list of flushable medications. If utilizing a drug take back program is not a possibility for you, these medications can be thrown in the trash. However, certain instructions must be followed. First, remove the medication from its original packaging and mix with something that pets, kids, or others wouldn’t like such as kitty litter, dirt, etc.
Reseal the medication mixture into something else, like a baggie, and throw it away. To get rid of the original packaging, mark over or otherwise remove all personal information and throw it away (U.S. Food and Drug Administration).
Communicating with Your Pharmacist
If you have any questions or concerns about your medications or their disposal, Compass Community Health Pharmacy is here to help. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to anything concerning your medications. Information is your friend- reach out by calling (740) 351-1500!
When was your last check-up? Your health matters. Compassionate care is who we are- schedule an appointment by calling (740) 355-7102!
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-Email: info@compasscommunityhealth.org,
-Message us on Facebook @ Compass Community Health
-Call: 740-355-7102
-Address: 1634 11th St, Portsmouth, OH 45662
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