Clear Out Your Medicine Cabinet
Return your medication- it’s easy, it’s free, and could save a life
Taking any medications when not prescribed or not as directed by your physician is dangerous- and too often fatal: accidental overdoses are a leading cause of death in Ontario.
Because access can lead to improper use, always follow these tips for health and safety:
- Dispose of unused/expired medications at your pharmacy
- Use medications only as prescribed
- Do not share your medications
- Lock medications in a secure location
- Review prescribed medications with those in your care
Reducing the opportunity for access reduces illegal diversion and the risk of experimentation, addiction, injury and death for citizens of all ages. Improper disposal of medications- in the garbage or down the toilet- can contaminate our natural environment.
Returning unused and expired prescriptions to any local pharmacy can save lives and reduce harm
By the numbers1:
- In 2013, 12% on Ontario students (120,100) reported using prescription opioids non-medically in the past year.
- 70% of these students reported that they got the prescription medications from someone at home.
- 19% of students felt it was fairly easy to get prescription drugs.
Return your medication- it’s easy, it’s free, and could save a life
Key Links:
Waterloo Region Integrated Drugs Strategy
Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health: Do You Know Drugs Series
1 Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. (2013). Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey.