According to the FDA nearly 40% of prescription drugs end up unused. This can be because they have expired, or simply because people no longer want them or need them. When the prescriptions aren’t disposed of properly they can become a hazard to children and pets, they can be abused by other people, or they can be harmful to the environment.
That’s why the FDA created “Take Back” days to encourage public safety and public health. Visit https://takebackday.dea.gov/ and scroll down to the collection site locator to see if there’s a drop site near you. If there isn’t then the FDA suggests reading the label for disposal instructions, flushing if it’s safe for your prescription, or mixing it with something undesirable, sealing in a bag, and throwing in the trash. Then be sure to destroy the label on the container.
“Check in on your elderly loves ones and see if they have any old or unused prescriptions they also need to get rid of.”
While you’re cleaning out your own prescriptions, this may be a good time to check in on your elderly loves ones and see if they have any old or unused prescriptions they also need to get rid of. The last time we moved one of my grandmothers we found two giant plastic totes full of expired and unused vitamins and supplements that she had completely forgotten about. Early dementia and handling one’s own medications is not a good combination.
LTC Consumer is your go-to online long-term care information site, helping individuals and families prepare for getting older with long-term care planning. Speak with an LTC Specialist today to learn about your Long-Term Care Insurance options to pay for care services.
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