Is flushing expired lipitor down the toilet safe?

How does the FDA recommend disposing of expired Lipitor?

The FDA advises against flushing most medications down the toilet. Only a short list of specific drugs pose enough immediate danger to warrant flushing as a disposal method. Lipitor does not appear on the FDA's flush list, so flushing it is not recommended.

Can expired Lipitor leach into water systems?

Expired Lipitor flushed into sewers can enter wastewater treatment plants. Treatment facilities do not always remove all pharmaceutical compounds completely. Low levels of statins have been detected in rivers and lakes after improper disposal.

What happens if you take expired Lipitor?

The FDA states that expired medications lose potency over time. Statins such as atorvastatin lose effectiveness gradually, but they do not turn harmful. Using expired Lipitor may not provide the expected cholesterol-lowering effect.

When does the Lipitor patent expire?

The original Lipitor patent expired in 2011. Generic atorvastatin has been available since then. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks current patents and exclusivities for brand-name and generic versions.

How do pharmacies help with medication disposal?

Many pharmacies participate in drug take-back programs. The DEA sponsors periodic national take-back days. Participants can drop off unused or expired medicines without fear of penalty.