Here are three very important reasons to dispose:

1. Disposing reduces drug abuse
   Prescription medication abuse has increased among teenagers and adults due to the ease of obtaining these drugs. Seventy percent of the persons who abuse painkillers said they received the drugs free from friends or relatives. Children or pets can also get into unattended medicine cabinets or bottles left on the counter. You can prevent substance abuse by simply removing the opportunity for teens and adults to abuse these drugs.

2. Disposing protects you and your family
   Prescriptions should be locked up to avoid theft and abuse. You should never share or take medication that was prescribed for someone else. Remember, Use Only As Directed.

3. Disposing protects our environment
   Drugs that are flushed cannot be removed by sewage treatment plants or septic systems. These substances are released into waterways which can lead to contamination of surface or ground water and fish.