Dispose of any excess medicine for conditions that have cleared up, and medicines that have changed color or odor. Discard medicines by flushing them down the toilet. Throw empty containers, but not medicines, into the garbage. Do not ask for unprescribed refills. Refrain from asking the pharmacist to refill a prescription when the doctor has not authorized it.
Some medicines are habit forming.
Automatic refills should also be avoided in most cases. Do not store medications on window sill, above oven, or in bathroom. Remember, unless otherwise instructed, store medicine in a cool, dry, and dark place. Reference Senior Series Volume 2, The Center on Rural Elderly, University of Missouri System. All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.