Keeping unused prescription drugs around your house can pose a serious risk. That’s why experts from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Mayo Clinic urge everyone to safely dispose of any leftover medications, especially those no longer prescribed. Think of it as safeguarding your home and loved ones from accidental ingestion, theft, or misuse.
“Unless your doctor specifically recommends keeping a medication, the safest bet is to get it out of your home,” advises Dr. Holly Geyer, an addiction medicine specialist at the Mayo Clinic.
According to medical professionals and DEA officials, certain types of prescriptions should *never* linger in your medicine cabinet:
Opioids: The dangers of opioids like oxycodone are tragically clear. CDC statistics reveal they were involved in over 81,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. last year alone.
Anti-anxiety Medications: Drugs like lorazepam and alprazolam belong to a class that can become toxic, especially when mixed with other sedatives.
Muscle Relaxers: Combining these with other substances can significantly increase the risk of an overdose.
Cough Medications:
Even seemingly harmless over-the-counter cough syrups containing dextromethorphan can be abused, particularly by teenagers engaging in “robotripping.” When you no longer need them, it’s best to dispose of them properly.
The DEA recommends utilizing drug drop-off boxes conveniently located at many police stations across the country.
Make a note to participate in DEA-sponsored drug take back events.
Title: The Dangers of Unused Prescription Drugs: An Interview with DEA Expert
Editor: Good day and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert from the Drug Enforcement Administration, who will provide insights into the risks associated with keeping unused prescription medications at home. Dr. Carter, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. Why is it so dangerous to keep unused prescription drugs in our homes?
Dr. Carter: Keeping unused prescription drugs can pose significant risks. First and foremost, there’s the risk of accidental ingestion, especially among children or pets. Even a small amount of certain medications can be harmful or even fatal. Additionally, unused medications can be misused or abused, leading to a higher risk of addiction.
Editor: That’s a serious concern. Many people might not realize that the medications they consider “safe” can still pose dangers when not properly disposed of. What types of medications are particularly concerning in this regard?
Dr. Carter: Opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants are some of the most concerning types of medications. These are often highly sought after for misuse. However, it’s not just those; many medications can have harmful effects if consumed inappropriately.
Editor: It sounds like awareness is crucial here. Can you provide some recommendations on how people should handle unused prescription drugs?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. It’s essential to properly dispose of any unused or expired medications. The best option is to take them to a designated take-back location, which the DEA organizes regularly. If that’s not possible, you can mix the medications with coffee grounds or kitty litter, place them in a sealed bag, and throw them in the trash. It’s also vital to remove any personal information when disposing of containers.
Editor: Are there particular times of the year when these take-back events are most prominent?
Dr. Carter: Yes, the DEA hosts National Prescription Drug Take Back Days twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. These events encourage communities to safely dispose of their medications.
Editor: It’s great to know there are organized efforts in place. In your experience, how receptive do you find the general public is to these messages about medication safety?
Dr. Carter: We’re seeing increasing awareness, especially over the past few years as the opioid crisis has gained more visibility. People are beginning to understand the importance of medication safety and the role they play in preventing misuse in their own homes and communities.
Editor: That’s encouraging to hear. Lastly, what message would you like to give our audience about the importance of being proactive with their medications?
Dr. Carter: I want to emphasize that being proactive about medication safety is everyone’s responsibility. By properly managing and disposing of unused medications, we can prevent accidental overdoses, reduce the chances of drug abuse, and keep our families and communities safe. It takes a community effort, and every small action counts.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights and reminding us about these critical safety practices. This conversation is vital for promoting health and safety in our communities.
Dr. Carter: Thank you for having me. It’s been great to shed light on this important topic.
Editor: Thank you for tuning into Time.news. Let’s all commit to being more vigilant about medication safety.