Is it true that medications can be safely disposed of by flushing them down the toilet?

The correct answer is that medications should not be disposed of by flushing them down the toilet. This practice can lead to environmental contamination, as trace amounts of pharmaceuticals can enter water systems and negatively impact aquatic ecosystems. Some medications may also pose a risk to public health if they are not disposed of properly, as they can be accessed by unintended users.

Disposal guidelines vary depending on the specific medication, and many organizations recommend alternative methods, such as taking them to a drug take-back program or following specific disposal instructions provided on the medication’s label or patient information leaflet. Therefore, it's crucial to be aware of the correct disposal methods to ensure both safety and environmental protection.