August Blog – Clean Your Medicine Cabinet
Clean Your Medicine Cabinet
Clear your chest. Your medicine chest or cabinet, that is. When was the last time you cleaned it out?
If you’re a regular headache sufferer or live with someone who is, then your cabinet is probably full of painkillers like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA).
You should make it a habit to check expiry dates and chuck out all outdated medications or those that show signs of breaking down. Just like food, medications do spoil over time. Old ASA (e.g., Aspirin®) and acetaminophen tablets that are ready to be thrown out may smell of vinegar. Liquid medications may become discoloured.
But don’t throw medications in the garbage! Instead, take them to your local pharmacy for disposal. Many pharmacies have programs where they accept old medications and pay for special waste disposal companies to destroy them safely. Alternatively, check out local community newspapers advertising hazardous waste disposal days organized by your community. You can usually get rid of outdated medications at these events along with unwanted household chemicals like leftover paint and paint thinners.
Ask Your Pharmacist
Q: While cleaning out my medicine cabinet, I found a few medications that have expired. What is the safest way to get rid of them?
A: It’s a good idea to regularly check your medicine cabinet for expired prescription and non-prescription medications as well as any medications you no longer need. Pharmacists are trained medication experts and have the tools and knowledge to dispose of medications safely. For a safe, responsible and environmentally friendly solution, you can take your unused or expired medications to your local Pharmasave for disposal.
Health Tip
Whether your kids are enjoying summer camp or you’re getting them ready to go back to school, help protect them from contracting or spreading germs by teaching them to wash their hands with soap and water, rubbing them together for at least 15 seconds. It’s also important to explain to kids how to avoid and not spread head lice. For instance, as hats, combs, hairbrushes and headphones can transfer head lice from one child to another, explain to your children why they shouldn’t share these items.
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