Healthwise
To print: Use your web browser's print feature. Close this window after printing.

How to Get Rid of Medicines

Table of Contents


Overview

It's important to get rid of your medicines when you no longer need to take them. You should also get rid of expired medicine.

An expired medicine is past its "use by" or "discard by" date. It may not work as well. And it may no longer be safe to use.

Make sure to get rid of medicine safely. Doing so can help prevent other people, or even animals, from using medicines that aren't meant for them. That could cause serious problems. This is especially important if you have small children or teens in the house.

How do you get rid of medicines?

Here are a few ways you can get rid of medicines safely. If you have any questions about your old or unwanted medicines, ask a pharmacist for help.


Credits for How to Get Rid of Medicines

Current as of: September 25, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


Note: The "printer friendly" document will not contain all the information available in the online document. Some information (e.g. cross-references to other topics, definitions or medical illustrations) is only available in the online version.

© 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.