Let's Be Clear:Safe Medication Disposal
- Prevention
- Safe Medication Disposal
Misused Medication Can be Dangerous
When it comes to medications, what you don’t use is just as important as what you do. Expired, unused or unwanted medications pose a real risk if they’re not disposed of properly. They can end up in the wrong hands, leading to poisoning, misuse or unintentional overdose.
Let’s Be Clear:
4 out of 5 new individuals using heroin started by taking prescription opioids without a medical need.
Best Practices for Safe Medication Disposal
Unused or expired medications that are left sitting in your medicine cabinet are easy targets for misuse. When you’re done using it, dispose of it safely using one of these options.
Drop Off at a Take-Back Location
Many communities have take-back locations where you can drop off medications safely and anonymously year-round.
Drug Take-Back Day
South Dakota participates in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, a nationwide event that provides a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medication. It’s a great opportunity to clean out your medicine cabinet and get rid of those expired or unwanted medications. The next Take Back Day is October 26.
Use DisposeRx Packets
DisposeRx packets dispose of medications right at home. Using an FDA-approved ingredient, the packets neutralize pills, tablets, capsules, liquids and powders for safe disposal. Just mix the packet with water, shake for 30 seconds and safely toss it in the trash.
Use a Lock Box
A medication lock box is a simple, free and effective way to keep your prescription and over-the-counter medications secure, preventing misuse or accidental poisoning. Lock it up, and you’ll have peace of mind.
Should You Flush or Pour Medications Down the Drain?
Avoid flushing medications down the toilet unless the label specifically tells you to do so. The FDA’s Flush List outlines medications that are approved to flush down the toilet because of their high risk for misuse or overdose. In these cases, it’s better to flush the medication and mitigate potential danger than leave it intact. When in doubt, don’t flush or pour medications down the drain.
Can I Throw Them Away in the Trash?
If you can’t access a take-back program, follow the FDA’s guidelines for safe disposal at home. This means mixing medications with an unappealing substance like dirt, cat litter or used coffee grounds, placing the mixture in a sealed plastic bag and throwing it in the trash. Also, don’t forget to scratch out all personal information on prescription labels before disposing or recycling empty containers.
Drug Take-Back Locations
Enter an address, city or county below to find a take-back location near you.
Ellsworth Air Force Base USAF-28 Medical Group/SGAL
2900 Doolittle Dr., Ellsworth Air Force Base, SD 57706
Oyate Health Center/Chief Pharmacy Service (Federal IHS)
3200 Canyon Lake Dr., Suite 1, Rapid City, SD 57702