PDF >>> Unused medications flyer

NEVER FLUSH UNUSED MEDICATION DOWN THE TOILET OR SINK!

Hormone medication, antidepressants, antibiotics and personal care products are found in waterways nationwide.  A recent report from the U.S. Geological Survey concludes potential impacts from these products are being studied worldwide.

We can minimize impacts of pharmaceuticals by simply disposing of unwanted or expired medications properly:

1. Ask your pharmacists if the pharmacy where the medication was purchased will take unused or expired medication back.
2. Add water or cooking oil to non-liquid medications, enclose in a plastic bag, and dispose of in solid waste.
3. For liquid medications add absorbent material such as kitty litter, sawdust, or flour.  Enclose in a plastic bag and dispose of in solid waste.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency has initiated a nationwide “take-back” day.  Take-back days were launched amid concerns other methods for disposing of prescription drugs, such as flushing pills down a toilet were having adverse effects on the environment.  Locally, Taos County takes part in the “take-back” day and Walgreens provides a “Safe Medication Disposal Program”.

As the Village of Taos Ski Valley looks at future improvements at our wastewater treatment plant, we are committed to ensure that our wastewater treatment process addresses issues such as pharmaceuticals.