How to safely dispose of expired medications?

Expired medications should be disposed of properly to prevent harm to others and the environment. The best method is to use a drug take-back program, which allows you to return unwanted medicines to a designated location for safe disposal. These programs are often organized by local pharmacies, hospitals, or community organizations.

If a take-back program is not available, you can use special disposal products designed for home use. These products deactivate the medication, making it safe to throw away in the trash. Always follow the instructions on the disposal product to ensure safety.

Steps for Safe Disposal:

1. Drug Take-Back Programs:
   • Check with local pharmacies or community centers for available programs.
   • Follow their specific instructions for returning medications.
2. Home Disposal Products:
   • Purchase a product designed to deactivate medications.
   • Follow the product instructions carefully.

Using these methods helps prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets and reduces the risk of contamination to the environment.