The Concern with Expired and Unused Medicines

All medications will eventually expire. When casually dumped in the trash or flushed down the toilet, these drugs can make their way to our waterways and into the soil, even sometimes into our drinking water. Scientists have just recently begun examining the effects of certain drugs on wildlife and ecosystems. The safest approach is a cautious approach.

From another point of view, drugs that are not discarded properly can end up in the wrong hands or paws. Prescription drug abuse is a current issue in the U.S and some are willing to go to great lengths for access to the drugs they want. Animals, including, household pets, can accidentally consume medications left in the garbage unless steps are taken.

Luckily, the DEA and other environmental groups have issued guidelines on how to dispose of unused/expired medications. Keep reading to learn more.

Recommendations from Credible Organizations
The American Pharmacist Association and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service list 4 small steps that can make a huge difference:

1) DO NOT FLUSH unused medications. This is no longer the best option, due to recent data showing that drugs could be having a negative impact on the environment. *There are several exceptions to this rule, however, listed at the bottom of the page.

2) When tossing unused medications, protect children and pets from the potentially negative effects. Put medications in a sealable plastic bag. Crush solid medications or dissolve them in water (simply pour in liquid medications), and mix with kitty litter, saw dust, coffee grounds, or a non-appealing material. Seal the bag and dispose of in your trash. Your trash should end up in a properly lined landfill to prevent any substance from leaking into the earth and our waterways.

Remove and destroy all identifying personal information from the drug container. Recycle or throw out the container.

3) Check for approved local collection programs or hazardous waste facilities. Local programs are a great and easy way to dispose of drugs in the best possible way. Johnson County has a waste disposal facility that accepts most medication waste. Call them if you have any questions. (Info on other side)

4) Talk to your pharmacist. Pharmacists are medication experts and should be able to help figure out the best disposal method for your specific case

Storage

Correct storage ensures your medicines will last as long as possible. Talk to your pharmacist about the correct way to store your prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

If you are taking your expired or unused drugs to a take-back program, make sure to store the medications in a proper location in the mean time. Locked or hard-to-reach cabinets are good options.

Johnson County Hazardous Waste Collection Facility

319-356-5185

3900 Hebl Avenue SW

Iowa City, IA 52240

About 2 miles west of the city on Melrose Ave

Drop-offs are by appointment only on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 7am–1 pm. Free for any Johnson County, Kalona, or Riverside residential customer! They also accept sharps if in proper sealed container (ie, detergent bottle) Website fall one line): http://www.icqov.org/default/

*Medications that SHOULD be flushed

Medications should be flushed only if the prescription labeling or insert states that it should be. Usually these drugs are powerful analgesics at danger for aversion. A handful of drugs that the FDA recommends be flushed down the toilet include:

• Actiq (fentanyl citrate)
• Daytrana Transdermal Patch (methylphenidate)
• Duragesic Transdermal System (fentanyl)
• OxyContin Tablets (oxycodone)
• Avinza Capsules (morphine sulfate)
• Baraclude Tablets (entecavir)
• Reyataz Capsules (atazanavir sulfate)
• Tequin Tablets (gatifloxacin)
• Zerit for Oral Solution (stavudine)
• Meperidine HCI Tablets
• Percocet (Oxycodone and Acetaminophen)
• Xyrem (Sodium Oxybate)
• Fentora (fentanyl buccal tablet)