The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued a list of 17 medicines that the general public can safely flush down the sink or toilet to prevent accidental harm. These medicines, if consumed by anyone other than the prescribed user, may prove fatal, especially for children and pets.

Key highlights

List of High-Risk medicines identified

• CDSCO named 17 harmful or potentially fatal drugs, mostly opioids and anxiety medications.

• The list includes fentanyl, tramadol, morphine sulfate, diazepam, methadone hydrochloride, oxycodone, and tapentadol.

• These drugs may be misused due to their abuse potential and should be disposed of cautiously.

Public disposal guidelines issued

• Guidance allows flushing of these drugs to prevent accidental poisoning or misuse.

• Disposal through sink or toilet recommended only for medicines on this specific list.

Environmental and health safety measures

• Unscientific disposal of medicines contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and environmental pollution.

• Antibiotics seeping into soil and water can harm ecosystems and public health.

Collection and disposal programs suggested

• State governments may collaborate with chemist associations to set up ‘Drug take-back’ sites.

• Disposal must follow Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016, using licensed external agencies.

Regulatory intent and framework

• The guidance was prepared by a DCC sub-committee and approved by the DTAB.

• The goal is to ensure safe disposal, compliance with the law, and reduction in AMR-related risks.

With this new directive, CDSCO takes a significant step toward both public safety and environmental protection. By clearly identifying dangerous medications and offering disposal instructions, the regulator aims to minimize accidental ingestion and limit antimicrobial resistance at the source.