When Do I Need to Dispose of Medicine and How?

National Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet Day is celebrated every April. It’ is not only a reminder to take inventory of your medications but also a great opportunity to dispose of medicine that is expired or unused in a safe and responsible way. This isn’t just about staying organized; it’s about protecting the health and safety of everyone in your household, especially children. Follow this guide so you can know when and how to get rid of medications properly.

When Should I Get Rid of Old Medicine?

Medications can lose effectiveness or even become unsafe over time. Here are some key reasons that indicate when it’s time to discard them:

• Expired Medications – Always check the expiration dates on packaging. If the date has passed, it’s time to dispose of the medicine – simple as that!
• Unused Medications – If you’ve been prescribed a treatment and have leftover doses that you no longer need, these should be disposed of, especially if they are narcotics or controlled substances.
• Changes in Appearance – If a medication’s color, shape, or consistency has changed, and the expiration date isn’t visible, do not take it. These changes could signify that the medication has degraded and is no longer effective or safe.
• Medication Recalls – Stay informed about medication recalls. If you receive a recall notice, immediately get rid of the medicine and contact your healthcare provider for a replacement or alternative.

5 Ways to Safely Dispose of Medicine

Getting rid of old medications and syringes is essential for protecting your health, preventing misuse, and keeping the environment safe. Here are five safe and responsible ways to dispose of medicine:

1.      Drug Take-Back Programs

For most medications, the best option is to participate in community drug take-back programs. Many local pharmacies and law enforcement agencies offer secure drop-offs.

2.      Disposal in Household Trash

If a take-back option isn’t available, you can safely dispose of medications in your household trash by following these steps:

• Mix the medication (do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unpalatable substance like dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds.
• Place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag or container to prevent spilling.
• Throw the container in your household trash to be brought to the curb for local sanitation.

3.      Avoid Flushing

In general, do not flush medications down the toilet. However, there are a few exceptions. When it comes to certain drugs that are dangerous and have a high risk of misuse, the United States Food and Drug Administration has a list of approved medications to flush.

4.      Remove Personal Information

Before discarding any medication packaging, remove or scratch any personal information on prescription labels to protect your privacy.

5.      Safe Disposal of Used Syringes

Used needles and syringes should always be placed in a designated sharps container to prevent needle-stick injuries and ensure safe handling. There are specific regulations and options for disposal in New York. HHLI’s Roosevelt location is also equipped to receive expired medicine and used syringes.

Medicine Cabinet Safety Reminder

It’s vital to store medications securely to keep your family safe. Use childproof containers, keep medicines in their original packaging, and place them out of reach in a locked cabinet if possible. Talk to your children about the dangers of taking the wrong medication or too much of it, and emphasize that medicine should only be taken under the supervision of a parent or guardian.

A Commitment to Community Health: Dispose of Medicine Responsibly

At Harmony Healthcare Long Island, we’re committed to protecting the health and safety of our patients and the community. Taking the time to properly dispose of medicine is not just about staying organized; it’s a critical step in reducing potential harm and minimizing the risks associated with expired and unused medications.