How do you properly dispose of unused or expired medications?

Proper disposal of unused or expired medications is essential for ensuring safety and preventing environmental contamination. Following facility policies for safe disposal reflects best practices established by healthcare facilities and regulatory agencies. These policies are designed to minimize risks associated with medication mishandling, such as accidental ingestion by children or pets, and to prevent the drugs from entering the water supply or ecosystem.

In many cases, facilities may have specific procedures for collecting and disposing of medications, which could include methods like returning medications to a pharmacy or participating in a medication take-back program. This adherence to established protocols ensures that medications are disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner while prioritizing patient health and safety.

The options that involve throwing medications in the trash, flushing them, or sharing them with friends do not align with recommended practices. These actions can lead to potential misuse or environmental hazards. Therefore, following the facility’s guidelines is the most responsible and safe approach to medication disposal.