When a doctor prescribes a medication, often times, patients finish the entire bottle and never have to worry about what to do with the remaining doses. There are times however, when a person doesn't need to take the entire bottle and therefore needs to dispose of the medication. There are federal regulations surrounding how to properly get rid of medication for health reasons as well as the protection of the environment.
The Regulations
The Federal government says that people should always follow the instructions on the medication bottles or informational pamphlets. Most medications can be thrown away in regular trash without causing environmental harm. Some medications have instructions indicating they should be flushed down the toilet, such as narcotic pain killers. Though the government says to follow instructions on the labels, this allows the medication to work its way into the water supply.
When disposing of prescription medication, first remove the pills from their bottle. Place them in a tight, sealable container with another substance, such as kitty litter or coffee grounds, to deter them from being found in the garbage and taken by another individual. Place the sealed container with the pills and other substance in the regular garbage. Before disposing of the bottles, remove all identifying information from the bottle. Remove the labels or darken them with a marker.
Why Follow Regulations
It is important to follow all regulations and guidelines to keep everyone safe. Keeping expired medication could cause harm to those who may find it and take it. If prescription medication is available, others may be able to get it and abuse it. Flushing any medications down the toilet will cause them to enter the water supply and could potentially make others very sick, especially if there are any medication allergies and the medication shows up in high concentrations. It is important to play your part in keeping the water supply clean and the environment healthy for everyone.
What about Over the Counter Medications?
These guidelines should also apply to over the counter medications because even though they are available over the counter and safe for the general public, they are not safe for everyone. Keeping the medicine cabinets free of expired medication is an important step toward keeping a healthy home and healthy environment. Don't flush medications unless instructed to do so by their labeling.
To learn more about the proper disposal of prescription medication, check out these sources:
The Food and Drug Administration offers a PDF flyer with information on the proper disposal of drugs.
The State of Utah explains why properly getting rid of medication is important.
Smart Rx Disposal discusses the steps to take to protect yourself and the environment.
The Environmental Protection Agency discusses how to properly throw away medication that is either expired or no longer needed.
The Office of National Drug Control Policy offers information on properly disposing of medication. Here you'll also find information on the policies behind illegal drugs.
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