How do I dispose of unused medications?

According to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), about three to seven percent of prescribed medicines are unused. It used to be the recommendation that these drugs, rather than being left at home, should be flushed down the toilet to prevent harm to children and pets. Unfortunately, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has found that these medications, when flushed down the toilet or thrown directly into the garbage, can and do find their way into waterways causing reproductive problems in fish and making some bacteria more resistant to certain drugs.

Following the release of guidelines issued by the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) , the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has developed a joint educational campaign with APhA called SMARxT Disposal in order to better inform the public regarding disposal of unused medicines through municipal hazardous waste collection programs or, at least, in the trash:

APhA and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service say just three small steps can make a huge difference:

1. DO NOT FLUSH unused medications. Consumers were once advised to flush their expired or unused medications; however, recent environmental impact studies report that this could be having an adverse impact on the environment. While the rule of thumb is not to flush, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that certain medications should be flushed due to their abuse potential. Read the instructions on your medication and talk to your pharmacist.

2. When tossing unused medications, protect children and pets from the potentially negative effects. APhA recommends that consumers:
- Crush solid medications or dissolve them in water (this applies for liquid medications as well) and mix with kitty litter or sawdust (or any material that absorbs the dissolved medication and makes it less appealing for pets or children to eat), then place in a sealed plastic bag BEFORE tossing in the trash.
- Remove and destroy ALL identifying personal information (prescription label) from the medication container.
- Check for approved state and local collection programs or with area hazardous waste facilities. In certain states, you may be able to take your unused medications to your community pharmacy.

3. Talk To Your Pharmacist. Research shows that pharmacists are one of the most accessible healthcare professionals. As the medication experts on the healthcare team, pharmacists are available to guide you on how to properly dispose of your unused medications.
Following these simple steps can help protect your family and community, minimize a potential negative impact on the environment, and prevent the illegal diversion of unused medications.