Disposal of Prescription Drugs

Question 1

What are you supposed to do with the majority of unwanted drugs?

Answer 1

most can be mixed w/ an unpalatable substance, put in container and discarded in the trash (in the case where there is not a “take-back” program for the medication. DO NOT FLUSH DOWN THE DRAIN

Question 2

which unwanted drugs can most pharmacies take back?

Answer 2

unwanted OTC and prescription drugs but NOT Controlled substances

Question 3

what are two options pharmacies have to dispose of medications?

Answer 3

• give the patient postage pre-paid evnvelopes so that they can redutrnd the unwanted drugs to licencesd waste ddisposal facilities
• estables a collection bin

Question 4

if the pharmacy has a collection bin, what are the rules?

Answer 4

staff cannot review the drugs being returned

• drugs need to be separated from their container before turning them into the bin
• the pharmacy and the waste hauler should each have a key (but requires both keys to open the bin)

Question 5

instructions on how to throw medicine in the trash

Answer 5

1. keep medicine in container but scratch out your information
2. if you have a solid pill, add some water, then add sawdust, kitty liter, charcoal, comet, powdered pepper etc.
3. close the container
4. put in a container that does not show whats inside .
5. place in the trashcan