Got a drawer full of old tablets or half-used bottles of medicine? Many of us keep leftover prescriptions, but hanging on to them isn’t just messy, it can be unsafe for you and your family.
Never flush medicines down the toilet or sink
Most medicines can end up in rivers and waterways, harming wildlife and polluting water supplies. The easiest and safest option is your local pharmacy. Most pharmacies offer free disposal services. Just pop the unwanted medicines in a bag. There is no need to take the packaging out to hand them over. This process is quick, easy, and completely legal.
Some councils also run household waste recycling centres with special collection points for medicines. If you’re unsure, you can check your local council’s website for further details. Many have specific days or locations for safe disposal. To learn more about the safe handling of medication, you or your workplace can engage in training. Courses are provided by professionals such as tidaltraining.co.uk/health-and-social-care-courses/safe-handling-of-medication-training/ and this can help update staff knowledge.
Don’t throw needles in the bin
If you’ve got sharps, like insulin pens or needles, these need special containers. Don’t throw them in your general waste bin. Your pharmacist can advise and provide you with the right disposal box. Only order or pick up what you need, and keep medicines in a dry, cool place to avoid waste. Disposing of unused medication properly isn’t just about clearing space in your bathroom cabinet. It keeps your household safe, protects the environment, and makes sure medicines don’t end up being misused.
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