In Colorado, how should expired medications be disposed of?

The correct approach to disposing of expired medications in Colorado is through take-back programs or in accordance with the regulations set forth by the Colorado Board of Pharmacy. This method is specifically designed to ensure the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of pharmaceuticals, which helps prevent potential misuse, contamination of water supplies, and the impact on wildlife.

Take-back programs involve designated events or locations where individuals can bring their unwanted medications for proper disposal, ensuring that these substances do not end up in the hands of those for whom they were not prescribed. The Colorado Board of Pharmacy supports these initiatives and outlines the appropriate practices for pharmacies and the public regarding medication disposal.

Other disposal methods, such as throwing medications in the regular trash or flushing them down the toilet, are not considered safe. These practices can lead to environmental contamination and pose risks to public health. Additionally, returning expired medications to a pharmacy for credit is typically not allowed; pharmacies focus on dispensing fresh, in-date medications rather than accepting returns for expired items.