Medications can be dangerous if taken by anyone other than for whom they are prescribed. Certain pain medications can be flushed as a safe means of disposal, but this list is limited. The FDA has a complete list of medications approved to be disposed of through flushing.
It is important to note that most medications cannot be disposed of this way. We offer safe medication disposal at some of our locations. Call 913-945-5405 or email specialtyrx@kumc.edu to find out how to safely dispose of medications at our pharmacy.
If throwing away medications at home, do not flush or pour unused medications down a sink or drain. If no take-back program is available in your area, throw the drugs in your household trash following these steps:
Remove the drugs from their original containers and mix them with used coffee grounds or kitty litter. This makes the drugs less appealing to children or pets and unrecognizable to people who may intentionally go through trash seeking drugs.
Place the mixture in a sealable bag, empty can or other container to prevent the drug from leaking out or breaking out of a garbage bag.
– Kelsey Konrardy, former pharmacy resident