Medication Disposal and Sustainable Pharmacy Habits in Canada
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The most practical sustainable pharmacy habit begins at home: avoid stockpiling medicines you will not use, keep products in their original containers, and return unused or expired medicines to a pharmacy. Safe disposal protects people, pets and the environment.
Do not flush unused medicines
Health Canada advises returning unused or expired prescription, non-prescription and natural health products to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Do not flush them down the toilet or sink.
Prevent waste before it starts
Before purchasing an over-the-counter product, check what you already have, including active ingredients and expiry dates. Ask your pharmacist about an appropriate package size when you are unsure. Do not share prescriptions or save medicines for a future illness.
Store products properly
Follow the storage instructions on each label, keep medications out of reach of children and pets, and do not leave them in hot or humid areas unless the label permits it. Keeping the original container also helps preserve dosing and safety information.
A small monthly reset
Once a month, separate expired or unwanted products for return to a pharmacy and update your medication list. It is a simple habit with both safety and waste-reduction benefits.