(NBC News) According to a national survey on drug use and health, more than 11 million people misused prescription pain relievers in 2017.
Many got them from a friend or relative.
Experts say the best thing to do is to get rid of the medication once you no longer need it, but safely.
Many pharmacy chains, including Walgreens and CVS, now have kiosks inside some of their stores where people can discard most of their medicine year round.
If you don’t live near a collection site there are still ways you can throw out medicine at home.
The FDA recommends mixing medication with something unsavory such as dirt or kitty litter, putting it in a sealed plastic bag and throwing it out with your trash.
If you throw out the prescription bottle, make sure all personal information has been removed, and only flush medication if the label or the accompanying information specifically instructs you to do so.
If you do not live near a pharmacy that has a disposal bin, experts say you should call your local health department and they may be able to provide some suggestions.
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