Why medication mistakes happen

Medications can be poisonous if the wrong medicine is taken or if the wrong dosage or amount is taken. A person can accidentally take the wrong medication if the medicine looks similar to their medication or if it was stored in the wrong place.

How can I safely store medications?

• Store medications in their original containers
• Keep medications in a lockbox or stored up high and out of reach of children
• Keep a list of your current medications in your wallet for emergencies or doctor appointments
• Store your medications separately from other’s medications to prevent a mix-up
• Turn on the light and put on your glasses prior to taking a medication
• If you are prescribed a new medication, make a chart to keep track of each dose you take
• Never take more medication than prescribed or that is written on the store bought medication
• Dispose of expired medications safely and promptly
• Never take someone else’s medications
• Do not stop taking medications without talking to your doctor first

When should you call the Poison Center?

Calling the poison center can help you determine if you are able to manage the situation at home or if you need to go to your local emergency department. Call the poison center when:

• When a medication is given to the wrong child/adult
• When the wrong medication is given to a child/adult
• When the wrong dose is given (overdose)
• When a medication is given by the wrong route or using the wrong procedure
• When a medication is given at the wrong time

How can I dispose of unused or expired medications?

Cat Litter/Coffee Grounds

Dissolve pills in warm water, add coffee grounds or cat litter and combine in a sealed bag. Dispose of bag and contents in trash.

Medication Disposal Kits

Medication disposal kits can be purchased over the counter at your local pharmacy. They have a product in them that deactivates medications in a safe way. Some local health departments can also provide disposal kits for free for the community.

Flushing

Some medications can be safely flushed down the toilet or sink. ALWAYS check the product packaging or call the poison helpline first to make sure flushing is safe.

Drug Disposal Days/Drop Boxes

In an effort to reduce the amount of misused or abused medications, the DEA has worked with local pharmacies to create Drug Take Back Days. Usually, these days occur in the Spring and Fall and law enforcement will accept all medications, no questions asked, to dispose of in a safe manner. Some retail pharmacies have drug disposal drop-off boxes available to their customers to dispose of unused or expired medications. Check with your pharmacist to see if they offer this service.

Please visit the DEA Collector Site Locator for more information on Drug Take Back Day.

Watch for information on upcoming Drug Take Back Days in our quarterly newsletter, DPICtions.