proper medication disposal
healthy disposal. stronger health.
What if the medicine meant to heal us is quietly harming everything around us?
Every day, households across the United States improperly dispose unused and expired medications, creating a growing environmental and public health crisis. Despite well-intentioned guidelines, about 89.4% of people still dispose of medications by flushing them, pouring them down the sink, or throwing them in the trash.
Contaminate water sources
Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to filter out pharmaceutical compounds. Drugs flushed down the toilet or sink can end up in rivers, lakes, and even our drinking water.
Harm wildlife and ecosystems
Wildlife exposed to pharmaceutical residues can suffer hormone disruption,reproductive issues, and increased mortality. In our own experiment, we found that a 0.45% aspirin solution reducedplant height by 66% compared to plants watered normally. Reduced plant yields are detrimental to the ecosystem andeven our growing human population.
Threaten human health
Improperly discarded medications increase the risk of accidental poisoning or misuse,
especially among children and teens.
how can we PROPERly DISPOSe?
Instead of tossing medications in the trash or flushing them, here are some ways to dispose medications.
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Use authorized disposal locations:
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Many communities offer safe and convenient drop-off sites for pharmaceuticals. These maybe located at local pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, or police stations. To find a safe disposal site near you, click the DEA’s official tool:
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Participate in National Drug Take Back Days:
Organized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), these events happen twice a year and provide temporary collection sites across the country.
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Use mail-back programs:
Some pharmacies and organizations provide mail-back envelopes to safely return unused medications for disposal.
SPREAD AWARENESS.
These are ways you can help spread awareness.
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Sharing this information with family, friends, and neighbors
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Hosting educational events or posting flyers in your community
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Volunteering at local drug take-back events
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Encouraging pharmacies and clinics in your area to participate in safe disposal programs