Ritzville Drug offering help with disposal of prescriptions

As news of teenage drug abuse and drugs found in drinking water abound, Ritzville Drug Company wants to help. The Office of National Drug Control has found that prescription drugs are the drug of choice among 12 and 13 year olds, while a third of all new abusers of prescription drugs were between the ages of 12 and 17.

Though it may be argued that the presence of drugs in drinking water is negligible, more and more consumers are disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the drain, adding pharmaceutical pollution to our waters. In addition, medicines thrown in the trash can end up in landfills if not first picked up by children, pets, sanitation employees, or anyone who rummages through trash.

That is why we we’re pleased to have started a new drug take back program to help our patients safely dispose of medicines that may be dangerous to others and to the environment. Patients of any pharmacy can now safely dispose of unused and expired medications at our store(s), free of charge. Simply bring in the drugs in their original stock containers and we will work to dispose the medications in an environmentally friendly way.

We welcome you to come and talk to your community pharmacist about any medications. And remember to never give away your medications or take someone else’s. Prescription medicines are powerful and when taken correctly, can save lives, but when not taken properly, can have dangerous and potentially deadly consequences. Our extensive education and experience in community pharmacy make us the most qualified health care professionals when it comes to medication therapy, and often the most accessible. We look forward to talking to you soon.

Corrina Gray, PharmD, Ritzville