In our daily lives, we often find ourselves with a surplus of medications, ranging from vitamins to prescriptions, which eventually expire or become unnecessary. What we may not realize is that improperly disposing of these medications can have damaging effects on both human health and the environment. When medications are tossed into the regular garbage or flushed down the drain, they can seep into groundwater and potentially contaminate our drinking water.
“Proper disposal of medications is not just about tidying up your cabinet; it’s about safeguarding our health and contributing to a healthier planet,” advises Karen Lam, Sunnybrook Ambulatory Patient Pharmacy Manager.
To address this issue, the Sunnybrook Pharmacy Green Team recommends a simple solution: regular assessment and proper disposal of unwanted or expired medications.
Here’s how you can contribute to this important endeavour in just three easy steps:
Step 1: Take inventory
Twice a year, take the time to thoroughly inspect your medication cabinet. Identify any medications that are expired or no longer needed. If you have any concerns or questions about specific medications, don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
Step 2: Prepare for disposal
Separate your unwanted medications, including both solid forms like tablets and capsules, and liquids or creams. Remove solid medications from the vials and place them into a clear bag, while liquids and creams can remain in their original containers. Before disposal, remember to remove any personal information from the containers. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep sharps and needles separate from other medications.
Step 3: Drop-off and recycle
Once you’ve gathered your unwanted medications, it’s time to dispose of them responsibly. Take the clear bag of medications to the Sunnybrook outpatient pharmacy or your local one for safe disposal. Notably, plastic vials can be recycled, contributing to environmental sustainability. However, it’s essential to note that medications labeled as “hazardous” or “toxic,” such as chemotherapy drugs, should remain in their original containers for safe handling. Similarly, sharps and needles must be disposed of in designated sharps containers available at pharmacies.
By following these three simple steps, you can play a significant role in ensuring the safe disposal of unwanted medications, thereby protecting both human health and the environment.
