Dangers of Improper Disposal
Although flushing medications down a toilet or pouring them down a drain seems logical, it may have negative repercussions. According to Waste Today Magazine, septic systems and wastewater facilities are not designed to remove medicinal chemicals from water.
These chemicals may not break down in the environment, explains the U.S. National Library of Medicine, so they “can pollute our water resources. This may affect fish and other marine life … [and] end up in our drinking water.”
How to Dispose of Unused Medications
Fortunately, there are ways to safely dispose of medications.
Take Back Programs: Public-sponsored take-back events offer the safest way to dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications. These temporary drug collection sites allow for easy, safe disposal. Public agencies have the means and know-how to keep drugs out of the wrong hands and out of the environment.
- The DEA hosts National Prescription Drug Take Back Day events several times each year.
- Many local communities sponsor take back events and deactivation pouches. Check your local CVS, Fishers Fire Department, or state health agency, or do a web search for “medication disposal near me”.
- Many pharmacies act as “authorized collectors of drugs for destruction”, with permanent drop boxes for consumer use. Again, your local or state health agency or good friend Google can help you find one near you.