What should you do with medication that is no longer needed?

Returning medication to the pharmacy is the recommended action when medication is no longer needed. Pharmacies often have specific programs in place for the safe disposal of medications, which helps to ensure that they do not pose a risk to the environment or public health. This practice minimizes the potential for misuse or accidental ingestion by children or pets and prevents harmful substances from contaminating water supplies or local ecosystems.

Other disposal methods, such as disposing of medication in the sink or flushing it down the toilet, are generally discouraged because they can lead to environmental pollution and contamination of water systems. Keeping the medication stored is not advisable either, as it can contribute to safety concerns and potential misuse. Therefore, returning it to the pharmacy facilitates responsible disposal and supports community health and safety.