Return old prescriptions
The new year is the perfect time to clean out your medicine cabinet.
The B.C. Pharmacy Association (BCPhA) and the Regional District of North Okanagan urge residents to return expired or unused medications to their local pharmacy for proper disposal.
“We recognize the potential environmental risk improperly disposed medications can pose in landfills and to local water sources, and encourage residents to return expired or unused medications to the pharmacy where purchased,” said Karmen Morgan, RDNO waste reduction co-ordinator.
B.C.’s medications return program ensures safe and effective disposal of old or expired prescription drugs, as well as oral dosage over-the counter medications and natural health products.
More information on the program can be found at www.medicationsreturn.ca.
“Residents and business owners are also reminded that medical items (syringes, plungers, IV bags, etc.) are not included in the regional blue bag recycling program and pose health risks to staff that hand sort recyclable materials,” said Morgan.
The B.C. Recycling Hotline is a resource for the most up-to-date drop-off recycling information for items not included in the regional blue bag recycling program.
Call 1-800-667-4321 or go online to www.rcbc.bc.ca.
“We are encouraging everyone to make a New Year’s resolution to safely dispose of their expired or unused medications,” said Ralph Lai, president of the BC Pharmacy Association.
“British Columbians can return these medications to pharmacies across the province at no cost.”
The BCPhA is a not-for-profit, voluntary, professional association of pharmacists and pharmacies. It represents more than 2,700 pharmacists and almost 800 pharmacies throughout B.C.
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