Safely Disposing of Medications: Separating Fact from Fiction
Think you’re disposing of medications safely? Many common methods like flushing, mixing with coffee grounds, or keeping old pills “just in case,” don’t deactivate the drugs. They can increase the risk of misuse, accidental poisoning, or environmental harm. Below, we break down the most common misconceptions and how Deterra offers a safer, proven solution.
Want to know how it works? Learn more about the science behind Deterra.
Kitty Litter
Kitty Litter
Only hides medication—doesn’t deactivate it. Drugs stay active and can still harm people or the environment.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee Grounds
Only disguise medication—don’t deactivate it. Drugs remain active and dangerous.
Flushing
Flushing
Doesn’t destroy drugs—they enter waterways, harming wildlife and possibly human health.
Keeping in the cabinet
Keeping in the cabinet
Unused meds at home risk accidental use, abuse, or overdose.
Old/expired drugs
Old/expired drugs
Changes in strength can make treatment harder and increase health risks.
Giving to others
Giving to others
The drug or dose may be wrong, causing harmful or life-threatening effects.
Only opioids matter
Only opioids matter
Any unused med can be misused, ingested accidentally, or harm the environment.
Small amounts are safe
Small amounts are safe
Even tiny doses can seriously harm people, pets, or the environment.
"Ending the opioid crisis requires a collective effort to get evidence-based prevention methods into the hands of those who need them most. Increasing access to at-home drug deactivation and disposal resources is key to preventing unused medications from becoming sources of misuse or environmental harm.”
Jason Sundby