How to Dispose of a Used Sancuso Patch
Fold the used Sancuso patch in half with the sticky sides together so it sticks to itself and can't be reused. Throw it in the household trash. Do not flush it down the toilet.[1]
Why Not Flush It?
Sancuso contains granisetron, a controlled-release medication. Flushing risks contaminating water supplies with active drug residues, which could harm aquatic life and enter drinking water. The FDA recommends trash disposal for transdermal patches like this to avoid environmental release.[1][2]
What If It's Still Sticky or Adhesive Remains?
If adhesive sticks to your skin after removal, wash the area gently with soap and water. For disposal, pressing sticky sides together works regardless—secure it in a small plastic bag or tissue first if needed to contain it in the trash.[1]
Storage and Unused Patches
Keep unused patches in their original pouch at room temperature. Dispose of expired or unused ones the same way: fold and trash. Don't cut or alter patches.[1]
Other Disposal Options or Regulations?
Household trash is standard per the prescribing information. Some pharmacies offer take-back programs for meds—check FDA's locator or local rules, but patches aren't typically accepted separately from pills. No special DEA rules apply since granisetron isn't a controlled substance.[2][3]
[1] Sancuso Prescribing Information, https://www.sancuso.com/pdf/Sancuso-PI-Final.pdf
[2] FDA Disposal Guidelines for Medicines, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/safe-disposal-medicines/disposal-unused-medicines-what-you-should-know
[3] DEA Take-Back Program, https://www.dea.gov/takeback