DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) – Got expired pills or leftover prescriptions in your medicine cabinet? Don’t toss them in the trash or flush them down the toilet.
The safest way to dispose of unwanted medications, especially powerful ones like opioids, is through a local drug take-back program.
These programs are designed to prevent misuse, accidental poisoning, and environmental damage. But if you don’t have access to one nearby, there are steps you can take at home to safely throw out your meds:
- Mix your medicine with something unappetizing like used coffee grounds, cat litter, or dirt.
- Seal the mixture in a plastic bag or container.
- Throw it in your regular household trash.
- Remove personal info from the pill bottle label before tossing or recycling it.
Always check the label for specific disposal instructions. Some medications have unique guidelines that should be followed carefully.
To find a local take-back site or learn more about safe disposal methods, visit https://bit.ly/43WkP5F.