Which of the following is an appropriate step for safe disposal of unused medications and controlled substances?

• A. Flush all medications down the toilet
• B. Follow DEA/CDC guidelines and use take-back programs
• C. Throw medications in regular trash without logs
• D. Return medications to patients

Answer: (B)

Disposing of unused medications and controlled substances through approved channels is the safest and most compliant approach. Following DEA/CDC guidelines and using take-back programs ensures medications are collected securely and disposed of in a way that prevents accidental exposure, theft, or diversion, and typically handles them through approved processes like incineration or other regulated methods. This approach specifically addresses controlled substances, which require strict handling to reduce misuse and protect public health.

Flushing medications down the toilet can introduce drug residues into water systems, harming the environment, and disposing in regular trash can lead to accidental exposure or theft. Returning medications to patients is not a disposal method and could create safety and regulatory problems.