Alberta Pharmacists Promote Safe Drug Disposal Through the ENVIRx Program

EDMONTON, AB, Aug. 24, 2023 /CNW/ - August is National Drug Drop-off month, and Alberta pharmacists encourage Albertans to take unwanted medications to their pharmacies for safe disposal through the ENVIRx Program.

The goal of the National Drug Drop-off month each August is to remind Canadians to drop off their unused medications at their local pharmacy for environmentally safe disposal. It also highlights the problematic use of prescription drugs by teens and emphasizes the need for Canadians to clear their households of any unused and expired prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines by returning them to their pharmacy.

Through the ENVIRx program partnership, pharmacists promote safe and effective medication use while providing Albertans with an environmentally responsible way to return unused and expired medications, also referred to as "dead drugs," through their local community pharmacy. The ENVIRx program collects over 100 tonnes of dead drugs and used needles each year, keeping these substances out of landfills and our groundwater supplies towards a safer and healthier environment for all Albertans.

Bringing your old or unused medications to your pharmacy presents an opportunity to touch base with your pharmacist to discuss your healthcare needs. Your pharmacist is trained to take the time to talk with you, so you know how to live better with a condition, manage multiple medications and supplements, and manage your own health outcomes.

We encourage parents to be vigilant and keep all prescription medications safe, secure, and out of reach of children.

Are you ready to dispose of your medications? It's simple!

To make a safe and easy drop-off, empty all dry medication, such as pills and tablets, into a clear bag, keeping all liquids, creams, and inhalers in their original vials, and remove all personal identification. Used needles or sharps should be placed in a sealed, certified Yellow Sharp Containers. Then, return to your local pharmacy. It's that easy!

Thank you to our supporters of the 2023 ENVIRx Program:

RxA Community Pharmacists

Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC)

For two decades, the Alberta Pharmacists' Association (RxA) has been a champion for pharmacists in Alberta. We play an integral role in expanding pharmacists' practice, and we continue to advocate on their behalf towards excellence in patient care.

Related Links
www.rxa.ca

Alberta Pharmacists Promote Safe Drug Disposal Through the ENVIRx Program

SOURCE Alberta Pharmacists' Association

Kendall Franklin, Communications and Member Engagement Manager, Alberta Pharmacists' Association (RxA), 780-990-0326, [email protected]