How to Dispose of Prescription Medicines and Over-the-Counter (OTC) Products

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In the past, flushing medication down the toilet or the sink had been recommended because it was quick and easy. Scientists are finding antibiotics, hormones and other drugs in sewer lines and waterways, so alternate methods of disposal are now recommended.

To find the safe way to dispose of medications and OTC products go to the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s webpage: http://www.ct.gov/dep/cwp/view.asp?Q=335480&A=2708

The Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection also provides a list of local drug collections sponsored by local police departments, see list here and other information:  https://portal.ct.gov/DCP/Prescription-Monitoring-Program/Proper-Disposal-of-Prescription-Drugs

 

Others Resources:

FDA, United States Food and Drug Administration:
http://www.fda.gov/forconsumers/consumerupdates/ucm101653.htm

Dispose My Meds: http://www.disposemymeds.org/

Chemotherapy Drugs: Some chemotherapy drugs may have special disposal requirements. Ask you health care provider about proper disposal.

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SOURCE: Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
PREPARED BY: 211/mm
CONTENT LAST REVIEWED: October2022