Proper Disposal of Household Prescriptions and Over-the-Counter Drugs

DO NOT FLUSH OR POUR UNWANTED, UNUSED OR EXPIRED MEDICATION DOWN THE DRAIN

This includes expired and unused prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs.

WHY NOT FLUSH?

* Flushed medications can get into our lakes, rivers and streams

Pharmaceuticals enter our wastewater from a variety of sources including the flushing of unused medications. A nationwide study done in 1999 and 2000 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) found low levels of drugs such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptives and steroids in 80% of the rivers and streams tested.

Fish and other aquatic wildlife are being adversely affected

A number of studies have shown impacts on aquatic life. For example, male fish have been feminized (produced eggs) when exposed to hormones (birth control pills). Other drugs, such as anti-depressants and beta-blockers, reduce fertility or affect spawning in certain aquatic organisms.

Drug-resistant bacteria might develop

Long-term exposure to low levels of antibiotics might result in the evolution of, or selection for, drug-resistant microbes and bacteria

HOW TO DISPOSE OF DRUGS SAFELY:

Where available, take your medications to a local collection event.

Contact your local pharmacy, recycling coordinator, or municipality to find out if there is a household hazardous waste collection* near you. While waiting for a collection events, keep all medications in a safe, secure place in your home out of reach of children.

Important information regarding controlled substances:

To guard against unauthorized use of controlled substance medications, the NYS Department of Health must approve events that collect these substances. Before you take controlled substances to a collection event check with the event organizer to see Iifthey are authorized to accept them.

BEFORE PLACING IN THE TRASH, FOLLOW THESE STEPS:

To avoid accidental or international misuse of drugs, treat medications (liquids and pills) by adding water and then salt, ashes, dirt, cat litter, coffee grounds, or another undesirable substance.

Hide all medications in an outer container, such as sealable bag, box or plastic tube to prevent discovery and removal from the trash. Seal the container with strong tape.

Dispose of drugs as close to your trash collection day as possible to avoid misuse and/or misdirection.

Do not conceal discarded drugs in food to prevent consumption by scavenging humans, pets or wildlife.

Note: Be careful in handling medications. Some drugs can cause harm if handled by people other than those of whom they are prescribed. Also, avoid crushing pills as some medications can be harmful in powdered form.

WHAT DO YOU DO WITH YOUR ‘SHARP’ NEEDLES AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION?

1. The Ononkwashona Pharmacy dispenses red plastic containers for “sharp” needles. Once filled, put a cover on the container and take to the pharmacy. The pharmacist will then dispose of it in a locked medical waste container.

2. Old and unused medications hanging around your home: put them in a bag and take to the pharmacy. The pharmacist will dispose of the medication. DO NOT flush in toilet or throw in garbage.