How to Dispose of Medications Properly

Though you may not think twice about simply throwing out old medications in the trash, proper disposal of medications is crucial for safety and public health. Tossing old or unused medications in the trash or flushing them down the toilet can have harmful consequences. Luckily, there are many ways you can safely dispose of medications!

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In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for disposing of medications safely.

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Utilize Drug Take-Back Programs

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The best way to dispose of unwanted or expired medications is through drug take-back programs. Many communities host events or have year-round collection sites, such as pharmacies, hospitals, or law enforcement agencies, where medications can be dropped off anonymously.¹

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The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) also sponsors National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day events twice a year. These programs ensure medications are destroyed in a safe and responsible manner.

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Follow FDA Guidelines for Disposal at Home

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If a drug take-back option is not readily available, the FDA provides guidelines for safely disposing of medications at home. Some medicines, particularly those that pose a significant risk of harm if ingested by someone other than the prescribed individual, can be flushed down the toilet. However, this is only recommended for specific drugs listed by the FDA. For most medications, a safer option is to mix them with undesirable substances like coffee grounds or cat litter, seal them in a plastic bag, and throw the bag in the household trash.

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Protect Your Information

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Before disposing of medication containers, remove any personal information on labels to protect your privacy. You can either peel off the label or use a marker to obscure your details.

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Taking a few simple steps to dispose of medications responsibly can make a world of difference for the safety of your family and the wider community. If you’re unsure about how to dispose of your specific medications, contact your pharmacist for instructions. 

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The information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace direct medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

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Sources: 

“Where and How to Dispose of Unused Medicines.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration.