Safe medicine disposal guide
Follow these steps to dispose of unused or expired medicines safely and reduce environmental impact.
Do not flush medicines
Flushing medicines down the toilet or sink can contaminate water supplies. Only flush if the label or patient information specifically says to do so (e.g. some opioids).
Preferred: Take-back programs
Drug take-back programs (pharmacies, hospitals, or community events) are the safest option. They ensure medicines are disposed of properly and do not end up in the wrong hands or in the environment.
If no take-back available: Household disposal
Mix medicines (do not crush tablets or capsules) with an unpalatable substance such as dirt, cat litter, or used coffee grounds. Place the mixture in a sealed plastic bag and throw it in the household trash. Remove or scratch out personal information on prescription labels before disposing of the container.
Disposal by medicine type
Tablets & capsules
- 1Do NOT crush tablets or capsules.
- 2Mix the medicines with an unappealing substance like used coffee grounds, dirt, or cat litter.
- 3Place the mixture in a sealable, leak-proof container or plastic bag.
- 4Throw the container in your household trash.
- 5Remove personal information from the empty medicine bottle (scratch off or black out the label) before recycling or throwing it away.