Dispose of drugs (correctly)

As with most everything else, there is a right way and a wrong way to dispose of unused or expired medications. In fact, this issue is so important that the U.S. government now has an entire Web site devoted to it. Though the rules are continually being evolved, some basic principles to safe, environmentally correct disposal do apply. Today, challenge yourself to bone up on the latest recommendations, including:

• Avoid flushing: Not only can drugs harm fish, they can end up in our drinking water. See the FDA list for exceptions.

• Call your pharmacy — some stores have take-back policies.

• Call your trash pick-up vendor — some cities have hazardous-waste facilities.

• If you must throw it away, try mixing it with something unsavory like cat litter, and always put it in a sealed container.