Most pharmacies accept unwanted and expired medicines for safe disposal at no cost. This protects children, pets and the environment, and prevents medicines from being misused. It is the recommended route in most countries.
Flushing medicines down the toilet or sink can pollute water supplies, and throwing them loose in household rubbish risks accidental access by children or animals. Some regions run medicine take-back programmes or have specific household disposal rules, so it is worth checking local guidance.
Before disposal, leave medicines in their original packaging where possible so they can be identified, and remove or obscure any personal details on the label. If you are unsure about the best method where you live, your pharmacist can advise.