Tips to “Spring Clean” Your Medicine Cabinet

Make sure to examine everything in the medicine cabinet, including ointments, supplements and vitamins. Get rid of any item that is beyond the expiration date. Many medications lose their effectiveness after the expiration date. Some may even be toxic.

Any prescription medications that are more than one year old get rid of as they are simply collecting dust.

Many times colors that have faded in medications are due to them being exposed to too much light or air.  

If something is no longer in its original container and cannot be identified, get rid of it. In the future, we should try to always keep medications in their original containers so that we can easily recognize every medication. This includes ointments, since these can easily be mistaken for creams.

Due to the potential harm to the environment, it is not recommended to simply throw out medication or flush them down the toilet. Here are a few ideas on what to do.  Place all medication in a sealable bag. If there are solid medications, add some water so they can dissolve.  Add kitty litter, coffee grounds, saw dust, or any material that mixes well and makes it unappealing for children or animals to eat. Seal the bag and put it in the trash.  Remove any identifying information on the prescription bottle, clean and recycle.  The local pharmacy, police department or Drug Enforcement Agency may also be able to assist in disposing of medication in a safe manner.

If the medicine cabinet is in the bathroom that may not be the best place to store medication. The temperature and humidity changes that take place while the shower is running can lower the potency of your medication. Medications should be kept in a cool dry place, away from children. We should consider a drawer in our dresser or a lock box in the closet.