Improper Disposal Of Medications Can Lead To Abuse, Other Issues, Wyoming Department Of Health Pharmacists Say

Main Category: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs
Also Included In: Medical Devices / Diagnostics;  Public Health
Article Date: 18 Nov 2008 - 5:00 PST

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Ineffective disposal of unwanted or expired medications can lead to abuse, pollution or accidental ingestion, according to Wyoming Department of Health pharmacists.

"Prescription drug abuse is a growing concern in Wyoming and across the country," said State Pharmacist Roxanne Homar. "No one wants to make the problem worse, and responsible, prompt disposal of medications can help."

Homar said drugs most likely to be abused include Oxycontin, Percocet, oxycodone, Vicodin, hydrocodone, Valium, Xanax, Fentanyl patches, and various sleeping medications, but that care should be taken in disposing of any prescription or over-the-counter medicine.

Because they may have been concerned about children or others accidently ingesting unwanted or expired drugs, many consumers have traditionally disposed of them by flushing them down the toilet or a drain. Donna Artery, a pharmacist with the Wyoming Department of Health, said this may cause pollution in wastewater that can harm fish and other aquatic wildlife. "Unintentional human exposure to the chemicals found in medications can also happen when the water is eventually reused," she said.

"The trash is really the best way to get rid of the medicines you don't need anymore to ensure no one swallows them either by accident or on purpose," Artery said. "And it's a good idea to modify the contents to discourage consumption."

For solid medications, Artery suggests adding a small amount of water or vinegar to partially dissolve them. Salt, flour, charcoal or a non-toxic spice can be added to liquid medications for a unappetizing mixture. Blister packs of drugs can be wrapped in layers of duct tape or other opaque tape.

"Before going into the garbage, medications should be kept in the original container because the caps are typically childproof and the labels contain safety information," Artery said. "Consumer privacy can be protected by simply marking out the patient's name on prescription drug containers."

Artery said people should tape the medication container lid shut and then place in a bag or plastic container. "These should not be anything you can see through. The idea is to 'seal and conceal,'" she said. "However, do not hide medicines in food because hungry wildlife scavengers by accidently eat them."

Patch disposal also requires close attention. Nicotine, fentanyl, motion sickness or any other kind of medication patch can be deadly to toddlers and dangerous to animals. "Young children are very susceptible to medications and they often are tempted to put everything they pick up into their mouths," Artery said. Like with other medications, used patches and new patches that won't be used should be taped, placed in another container and thrown in the garbage.

Wyoming Department of Health