Disposal of medicines

If a medicine has passed the expiry date indicated on the outer packaging or container, you must no longer use it. The expiry date refers to the last day of the month indicated.

In case you no longer need the medicine, you must not simply dispose of the medicine in the toilet, down the drain or in the normal household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of it properly. Thereby you are protecting the environment.

Additional information in German: MA 48 und die Österreichische Apothekerkammer 

Special instructions for transdermal patches

Patches that contain active medicinal ingredients and are applied to the skin (known as “transdermal patches”) must be disposed of with particular care, as significant amounts of the active ingredient often remain in the patch after it has been removed. 

Why this is important: If children or pets come into contact with such used patches, serious or even fatal consequences can occur – e.g. if a child chews on or sticks a patch containing painkillers, hormones or nicotine on their skin .

If you have any further questions about the disposal of medicines or patches, please contact your doctor or pharmacist.