Knowledge Base

Pharmaceutical take back- How do I properly dispose of prescription medication?

Category: Trash & Recycling

Proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste is very important as some medicines present a health risk to you, your family, your community and the environment.  Throwing medication away may lead to accidental ingestion by children or pets. It may also lead  to improper use of medication due to theft. Flushing medication down the sink or toilet is not a safe disposal method.

Improper disposal of pharmaceutical waste may contaminate soil or seep into the groundwater and contaminate drinking water supplies. They may also run off into the nearest  body of  water where they can poison or kill fish and other wildlife. Traces of medications such as hormones and antibiotics have been found in surface waters across the United States. 

 Please visit Drug Free Collier to find Operation Medicine Cabinet Drop-Off Locations.


Updated 8/28/2024 1:13 PM
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