What is the proper way to dispose of expired medications?

The proper way to dispose of expired medications is to follow facility protocols, which often involve returning them to a pharmacy or using a designated disposal method. This approach ensures that medications are discarded in a manner that minimizes the risk of accidental ingestion, environmental contamination, and misuse.

Pharmacies typically have established procedures for accepting expired medications, and some facilities may even have specific disposal programs in place, such as medication take-back events or secure disposal kiosks. This practice aligns with guidelines from health authorities aiming to safeguard public health and the environment.

Disposing of medications through these recommended channels also helps prevent potential issues associated with other disposal methods, such as throwing medications in the trash, which can lead to someone else discovering and possibly misusing them, and flushing them down the toilet, which can result in water contamination. Sharing medications with friends or family is also inappropriate, as it can pose serious health risks due to factors like differing medical histories, dosages, and individual reactions to medications.