Never flush amoxicillin down the toilet or drain. This contaminates water systems. Instead, follow these steps for safe disposal.
Mix and Discard
Mix the unused amoxicillin with an undesirable substance, like used coffee grounds or kitty litter. This makes the medication less appealing and prevents accidental ingestion.
Seal Tightly
Place the mixture in a sealed, non-breakable container, such as a sealed plastic bag or empty, resealable food container. Clearly label the container with “Medication for Disposal.”
Dispose Properly
Check your local guidelines for medication disposal. Many communities offer drug take-back programs or household hazardous waste disposal events. You can often find details on your local health department or pharmacy website. Alternatively, throw the sealed container in your household trash.
For Larger Quantities
If you have a significantly large amount of unused amoxicillin, contact your local pharmacy or waste management service for guidance on proper disposal. They may have specific instructions or collection programs for larger quantities of medications.
