CASA has agreed to join a letter calling on the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to end its recommendation that certain medications be disposed by flushing them down the toilet. The letter also asks federal agencies to develop clear and consistent guidance on safe disposal of leftover household medications and promote secure medicine take-back programs as the most appropriate disposal method for unused pharmaceuticals. Ending the so-called FDA “flush list” recommendation is part of a broader effort to educate the public that toilets are not trash cans while promoting a safe, effective means for pharmaceutical disposal.

The California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) is spearheading this effort, and a broad coalition of local government agencies and officials, environmental groups, and academics are expected to sign on as well. CASA urges member agencies to support this initiative and consider joining the letter, which CPSC expects to send in mid-January.