How should a pharmacy dispose of expired medications?

Disposing of expired medications appropriately is crucial for public health and environmental safety. Following federal and state regulations for hazardous waste disposal ensures that the medications are disposed of in a manner that minimizes risk to the community and the environment. Regulations often stipulate specific methods for disposal, such as incineration or authorized collection programs, which are designed to prevent medication abuse and contamination of water supplies.

On the other hand, throwing expired medications in the regular trash poses a significant risk of accidental ingestion by children, pets, or wildlife, while pouring them down the sink can lead to contamination of water systems. Returning them to the manufacturer may not always be feasible or required under the regulations governing medication take-back programs. Therefore, following the established legal protocols ensures a safe and responsible approach to medication disposal.