How to Dispose of Old Medications?

Follow the disposal instructions on the medication label or patient information leaflet

Use a drug take-back program or pharmacy take-back location

Use a local household hazardous waste collection site if available

Mix medicines with an unappealing substance such as used coffee grounds or cat litter if take-back is not available

Place the mixture in a sealed container or bag before putting it in the trash

Remove or scratch out personal information from prescription labels before discarding containers

Do not flush medications unless the label or official guidance specifically says to do so

Keep medications out of reach of children and pets until they are disposed of

Separate needles, syringes, and other sharps and dispose of them in an approved sharps container

Check with your pharmacist or local waste authority for area-specific disposal rules

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