Ask TCV: How do I safely dispose of my expired prescription medications?
TCV Answers: In a nationwide program, you can safely dispose of expired medications or those you no longer need at your local law enforcement agency, this weekend.
But what happens when you need to dispose of your medications at other times?
AARP has an informative article, Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet. [TCV Update 4/29/2024: URL no longer available.]
CAUTION: One of the frequently touted tips is a BAD IDEA!
BAD IDEA: Crush pills, dilute in water then blend with kitty litter or coffee grounds before placing in a plastic bag.
IMAGINE millions of (if not a Billion) people doing this worldwide. What would be the impact to our waters and lands as these bags decayed and these chemicals filtered through?
BETTER IDEA
Turn in expired or unneeded meds to your doctor at your next appointment. Instruct him/her to dispose with their haz mat waste.
We hope our medical centers have the integrity to safely dispose of these materials. I add this comment because a recent investigative report unveiled improper haz mat disposal by hired contractors.
Brenda Avadian, MA
TheCaregiversVoice.com
