DEAR DR. GOTT:
What is the safest way to dispose of old prescription bottles and out-dated medication? I am afraid to just throw the bottles away because of all the information on the labels. I am also afraid to throw the pills in the garbage because I live in a rural area and regularly have wild animals get into my trash cans (despite my attempts to keep them out).
DEAR READER:
A short time ago I responded to a reader who indicated she was reluctant to dispose of empty prescription bottles in the garbage because of all the personal information contained on the label. I suggested she use a magic marker to cover the information, or soak the bottles in warm to hot water for ease of removal of the label. Since that article appeared, I have received several letters from readers with varying thoughts I will share with you.
A blow dryer applied to labels for a few seconds will provide instant removal of the label.
Place the empty bottle in a container of water and heat it in the microwave for one or two minutes for removal of the label.
Use a single-edge razor blade to scrape labels off, taking extra care to make sure your hand doesn’t slip and cause any cut fingers.
Ask your local pharmacy staff if they have a means of shredding and disposing of old prescription bottles. Many have the capability, and they will dispose of unused medications, too. This suggestion sounds great to me as it guarantees your privacy and helps with recycling at the same time.
Out-dated medications can easily be discarded by flushing down the toilet. Birth control pills are also excellent plant fertilizers (one pill every two or four weeks).
Readers, thank you for your ideas.
About Dr. Gott