Pollutec Recycling

EXPIRED MEDICATIONS

PRODUCT:

• Pills/Medicine

• Any Drug Products

USES:

The uses are variable, depending on the ailment or sickness.

HEALTH EFFECTS:

Ingestion: Although most expired prescriptions lose effectiveness as they expire, some do not. Some medications are also toxic after a certain length of time. The safest route is to NOT take any medications which are expired. Prescriptions are meant only for the person whose name is on the label. Do not give them to anyone else. Doctors prescribe them based on your specific medical history. Prescriptions could have dire consequences for unauthorized consumers/patients.

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS:

Disposal "down the drain" results in discharge into marine and freshwater environments. Impact upon these environments is difficult to ascertain. Impacts are often observed as fish kills or discoloration of the water column. More subtle, non-lethal adverse impacts occur: effects on reproductive, nervous, muscular, and respiratory systems, etc. Into a landfill expired medications represent an exposure risk to wildlife. Incineration provides the preferred option for disposal of expired, or surplus, medications. Expired medications should be considered special waste. Special handling, transport, and disposal procedures will minimize risk of exposure and/or adverse effect.

DO'S

DON'Ts

Do bring old and expired prescriptions to your nearest pharmacy.

Don't throw in the garbage.

Do keep out of reach of children.

Don't pour down the sink, toilet or sewer systems.

Do use, consume, and apply prescriptions as directed.

Don't give to another person for use.

RECYCLING OPPORTUNITIES:

Not Applicable.

DISPOSAL:

Bring to your nearest pharmacy. Landfill or municipal incineration should be considered as a last option for disposal.