Practice Proper Medicine
Storage and Disposal

That bathroom medicine cabinet seems convenient, but the heat and humidity can break down many drugs. Instead, keep your medicines in a cool, dry place, locked up and out of reach of children and pets.

Other drug storage and disposal tips:

• Remove the cotton plug from an opened bottle. It can suck moisture in.
• Toss pills that have changed color or smell, as well as capsules that stick together or are cracked.
• To safely dispose of out-of-date or leftover medications, bring them to the medication collection to be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, at Machesney Park Mall. Please keep medications in original containers if possible and use a marker to block out your name. No needles (sharps or Epipens) or illegal drugs can be accepted. OSF pharmacists will be on hand to identify the medications, and the Illinois EPA will ensure proper disposal.
• Mix old drugs with kitty litter or used coffee grounds and put them in a sealable plastic bag in your trash.