January 20, 2022
A guide to disposing of medicines
Did you know that you can return a whole host of medicines to your local pharmacy, for safe and environmentally friendly disposal in the RUM bin?
Medicines that can be returned to your pharmacy
Discover the kinds of medicine you can safely dispose of below.
- Any prescription medicines
- Any over-the-counter medicines
- Herbal and complementary supplements
- Gels, liquids and topical creams
- Medicines prescribed to your pet
- Asthma inhalers that still contain the active ingredient
- Penthrox inhalers
- Methadone, provided it is poured into the bin with kitty litter or sawdust and complies with Schedule 8 regulations within the local jurisdiction
- Insulin pens and vials
- Unused Epipens
- Used or unused Duodopa cassettes
- Any ampoules
- Glyceryl trinitrate spray and tablets
- Small quantities of expired galenicals, unless they require special handling ● Heat-affected vaccines
- Homeopathic remedies
Medicines that cannot be returned to your pharmacy
- Sharps and Needles
- Medicine from professionals working in Aged Care facilities, GP surgeries, day hospital and veterniary surgeries
- Placebo inhalers
- Used Epipens
- Unwanted tubing or pumps from duodopa cassettes
- Bandages and dressing
- Enteral and naso-gastric feed items
For more information, visit our FAQs page or get in touch.