Safe Medication Storage & Disposal: Declutter Your Cabinets With Care
Before you put those new prescriptions from Starwood Pharmacy into your bathroom medicine cabinet, consider these best practices for storing your medications.
Keep medications in a cool and dry place. Contrary to popular belief, it is not recommended to store medications in the bathroom, due to the humidity that could potentially break down certain medications. The recommended temperature for most non-refrigerated medications is 68-77 Fahrenheit.
Store medications away from light, since some medications can break down due to light exposure.
It is recommended to keep refrigerated medications stored at roughly 36-46 Fahrenheit for the expiration date on the package to stay valid. Once opened, these medications may be stored at room temperature, with a shortened expiration date. For specific expiration dates, please refer to the package.
Medication tablets and capsules should be stored in a child-resistant container, to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets. Starwood Pharmacy can also provide non-safety lids available upon request.
Once your medications have expired or your healthcare provider has discontinued them for you, how do you safely dispose of them?
Medications should be disposed of through Drug-Take-Back services that utilize facilities to destroy medications in a controlled environment. This removes the threat of pharmaceutical products entering the soil and water supply. Options for safe medication disposal include:
DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day - Twice per year in April and October at specific locations
Kiosks at participating pharmacies
Safe needle disposal procedures should be followed by patients who use injection medications. To prevent needle-stick injuries, do not throw needles in the trash can. Instead, Home Sharps containers are recommended for safe disposal, and can be purchased at your local pharmacy.
October 26, 2024 is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day! Collection sites are open 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. to take back prescription drugs for safe disposal. Find a Take Back location near you.