DEAR DR. GOTT:
You recently responded to a reader who wanted to know how to dispose of outdated medication. I feel your answer directing the population to further contaminate our water supplies by flushing them down the toilet is completely inappropriate. This is totally against all and any safety regulations. Why are you so driven to destroy our environment? If perchance you correct your article, you will have already done insurmountable damage by the time your response appears in print.
DEAR READER:
Since my article appeared in late May, I have received several letters on the subject. While some were not as strong as yours, I have chosen to address the subject again with the hope I can redeem myself.
Unused over-the-counter and prescription medications can be found in almost every household, nursing home and hospital in the country.
In the past, discarded pharmaceuticals were commonly flushed away. Out of sight, out of mind. Since those days, studies have revealed that over-the-counter and prescription drugs may have a harmful effect on water supplies and soil. The trace levels are extremely low, but do exist. The major concern is the possibility of drugs ending up in drinking water sources.
To confuse the issue and to my reporting credit, the Office of National Drug Control Policy (www.WhiteHouseDrugPolicy.com) advises that more than a dozen drugs, including oxycontin and morphine, be flushed and gives other approved disposal methods.
There are several organizations that recycle drugs. Such organizations generally use leftover drugs prescribed to American HIV patients for HIV sufferers in other countries. The expensive retroviral medications are collected after patients in the United States switch prescriptions, stop the medication or die. They are then passed onto individuals throughout foreign countries. The organizations enlist the help of a physician, clinic or hospital who collects and ships the medicine to the programs. Laws in the United States don’t allow redistribution of any medications in this country but there is no prohibition when exporting to other countries.
Data provided from the FDA Shelf Life Extension Program reveals that almost 100 different drugs stored in their unopened original containers would remain stable for almost five years following their expiration date. One very expensive antibiotic was tested and found to be safe and effective nine and a half years after the expiration date listed. Two other medications were found to be effective after 25 years and retained antiviral activity after boiling and being held at 149-185 degrees Fahrenheit for several days. Medical Letter journal consultants believe most drugs — even those opened and stored under reasonable conditions, retain up to 80% of their potency for up to two years after the expiration date. Despite this evidence, most manufacturers urge disposal of “expired” medications. However, they can be a great benefit to recycling programs.
Many states have a hazardous waste collection program that can properly dispose of medications. Check with your local pharmacy or hospital, or even your state offices to determine if they have a program in place to aid in the disposal of unwanted medications.
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