This shop has been compensated by Inmar Intelligence and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #ConsumerDrugTakeBackSanMateo

Sometimes, I think that my house seems like a pharmacy, but medicine storage is more concerning than it is curious. Due to illnesses and medical conditions, my family has consumed and stored a lot of medication. As parents, we constantly worry about our children’s safety and well-being. One often overlooked aspect of our children’s safety is the proper storage and disposal of medications within our homes. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 22, 2023 is the perfect time to address this issue. Promoting safe storage and disposal of medications can help prevent accidents. We must discourage stockpiling of unused drugs, and protect our environment from damage caused by improper disposal.

The Dangers of Improper Medicine Storage and Disposal

Expired or unused medications pose a significant threat to our families safety. Improper storage can lead to children accidentally consuming medications, which can result in serious health complications or even fatalities. Keeping expired or unused drugs at home also increases the risk of drug abuse by other family members or friends.

People often resort to flushing medicine down the toilet, pouring it down the drain, or throwing it in the garbage. Unfortunately, these methods can have serious consequences for our environment and water supply. They can lead to the contamination of soil, groundwater, and aquatic life. Improper disposal adds to the growing problem of drug abuse.

A Safe and Responsible Solution

Inmar Intelligence​ created the Consumer Drug Take Back program to help raise awareness and combat the opioid crisis. This initiative provides a safe and environmentally friendly solution for disposing of unused or expired medications. By offering secure drug take-back kiosks across the United States, Inmar Intelligence​ is helping to protect families and communities. 

Using the Inmar Intelligence​ tool is simple and convenient. Just enter your zip code on their website to find safe drug take-back kiosks in your area. 

If you’re located in or around the San Mateo area here are a few locations you can find a Kiosk: 

SAFEWAY PHARMACY #0305Sponsored1071 El Camino RealRedwood CityCA94063San MateoSan Mateo County
SAFEWAY PHARMACY #1138Sponsored1100 El Camino RealBelmontCA94002San MateoSan Mateo County
SAFEWAY PHARMACY #1547Sponsored1450 Howard AveBurlingameCA94010San MateoSan Mateo County
SAFEWAY PHARMACY #2719Sponsored525 El Camino RealMenlo ParkCA94025San MateoSan Mateo County
SAFEWAY PHARMACY #2878Sponsored525 El Camino RealMillbraeCA94030San MateoSan Mateo County

They’re easily accessible and secure, making responsible disposal easy for us all.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is on April 22, 2023. Inmar Intelligence​ will join the nationwide effort to promote safe medication disposal during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The annual event encourages people to clean out their medicine cabinets and safely dispose of any unused or expired medications. Participation helps prevent drug abuse and protect the environment while ensuring the safety of your family.

Tips for Safe Medication Storage and Disposal

As mothers, we play a crucial role in safeguarding our families from the dangers of expired or unused medications. Here are some tips to promote responsible medication storage and disposal in your home:

  1. Keep medications out of reach of children: Store your medications in a locked cabinet or a high shelf that is inaccessible to young children.
  2. Properly label medications: Make sure all medications are clearly labeled with their name, dosage, and expiration date to avoid confusion.
  3. Regularly check expiration dates: Periodically review the medications in your home and promptly dispose of any that have expired or are no longer needed.
  4. Educate your family: Teach your children about the dangers of consuming medications without a prescription and ensure all family members understand the importance of proper medication storage and disposal.
  5. Utilize Inmar Intelligence​’s take-back kiosks: Make a habit of using​ drug take-back kiosks to safely and responsibly dispose of any unused or expired medications.

We have a responsibility to protect our children and family and practice medication storage and disposal. By utilizing Inmar Intelligence​’s Consumer Drug Take Back program and participating in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, we can! We can ensure the safety of our loved and support the well-being of our communities and the environment. Let’s take a proactive approach and make responsible medication disposal a priority in our households. Together, let’s fight against drug abuse and create a safer environment for everyone.

Proper Medicine Storage of Non-Expired Medications

The disposal of out-of-date or unused medicines is helping to reduce potential risks. Appropriate storage guarantees that these medications stay effective and secure. Here are some recommendations for keeping your unexpired drugs in good condition. Here are some tips for storing your non-expired medications:

  1. Follow storage instructions: Always read and follow the storage instructions provided on the medication label or accompanying leaflet. Some medications may require refrigeration or protection from light and humidity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) offers guidelines on how to safely store medications.
  2. Keep medications in their original containers: Retain the original packaging of the medications, as it contains important information such as the drug’s name, dosage, and expiration date. This practice also helps prevent confusion between different medications.
  3. Unless otherwise indicated by your label, store medications in a cool, dry place: Exposure to heat, humidity, and light can degrade medications and reduce their effectiveness. The bathroom medicine cabinet is often not the best place for storage due to high humidity levels.
  4. Use a medication organizer: A medication organizer can help you keep track of your daily medications and ensure you take them as prescribed.
  5. Keep medications away from children, pets, and drains to prevent accidental consumption and disposal.

By adhering to these guidelines and referring to the resources provided, you can help keep your loved ones safe. Ensure that your non-expired medications are stored safely and effectively. Proper medication storage guarantees the efficacy of your medications.