Unused prescription medications find their way into the wrong hands far too often, creating dangerous and tragic situations. According to findings from the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health report, more than 42% of people who misused pain relievers in the past year obtained them from a friend or relative in some way (i.e., being given them, buying them or taking them without asking). Here are some medication safety tips you can use to prevent drug misuse, abuse and diversion in Sumner County: 

• Use medications responsibly. Take medications only as prescribed by a provider and never share your prescription medications with anyone. Here are some other helpful tips: 
• Always keep a current list of your medications, including ones you only take on occasion. Share your list with close family members and keep a copy in your wallet. 
• Include the medication name, dose, how often you take it, the method for taking it (by mouth, injection, etc.) and the reason for taking it.  
• Don’t forget to include over-the-counter drugs, herbals, vitamins and dietary supplements.  
• Include any allergies, the names and phone numbers of your providers, and your preferred pharmacy.  

• Ensure proper storage. Always lock the cap on medication bottles and keep your medicines in a safe and secure location out of the reach of children and out of sight from friends and visitors. Each year, thousands of emergency department visits result from unintentional medication overdoses among children under the age of 5 years, and many people who misuse pain medications obtain them illegally from others. 
• Safely dispose of unused or expired medications. Never throw your medications in the trash or flush them down the toilet. Discarded medications can be easily retrieved and abused or illegally sold, and medicines flushed down the toilet can contaminate the community water supply. Safely dispose of your unused and expired medications to help prevent accidental poisoning, overdose and abuse, while promoting a healthy environment for your family and neighbors.