11
Figure 2. Secure Storage and Disposal of Opioids
Patients should immediately bring unused opioids to Drug
Enforcement Administration's (DEA) semi-annual events or
DEA-approved permanent collection sites, or use mail-back.
When patients use the take-back options, the drugs they
dispose are ultimately incinerated.
If a take-back option is not available and an opioid is listed on
the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) flush list, patients
should flush unused opioids down the toilet to remove
them from the home as soon as possible. FDA found that the
environmental effects of flushing opioids on the flush list is
negligible.
If a take-back option is not available and an opioid is not on
the flush list, patients should mix unused opioids with an
unpalatable substance, such as cat litter, and dispose of the
mixture in the trash.
Take-back
Flushing
Trash
Locking
Medicine Cabinet
Medication Lock
Box
