Pharmaceutical Waste: Disposing of unwanted medications In the past it was recommended that unwanted medications be disposed of by flushing them down the toilet or drain. This method of disposal can cause pollution in wastewater and can also cause unintentional human exposure to chemicals in medication. Mediations should not be disposed of by flushing down the toilet or a drain.
- Take unused, unneeded, or expired medications out of their original containers and throw them in the trash.
- Mix prescription drugs with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter, and put them in impermeable containers, such as empty cans or non-transparent sealable bags.
- Flush prescription drugs down the toilet only if the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs you to do so.
For more information visit Minnesota Pollution Control Agency online.
Radon: Keeping Your Home Safe Radon is a colorless, odorless radioactive gas that seeps up from the earth. When inhaled, it gives off radioactive particles that can damage cells that line the lung. Long term exposure can lead to lung cancer. Every home in Minnesota should be tested every 2-5 years for radon gas, say state health officials. Testing a home is so important that, as a way to prevent exposure to radon, which can cause lung cancer, health officials are offering a limited number of low-cost test kits to Minnesota homeowners.
For more information and a comprehensive brochure with information on radon risks, testing and mitigation go to http://www.health.state.mn.us/radon
