Practical and immediate
What do I do with their prescriptions?
Short answer
Return unused controlled substances to a DEA-authorized take-back location (many pharmacies, police stations). Do not flush them. Other medications can be returned to pharmacies that accept them or disposed of with coffee grounds/kitty litter in a sealed bag.
What this usually means
Return unused controlled substances to a DEA-authorized take-back location (many pharmacies, police stations). Do not flush them. Other medications can be returned to pharmacies that accept them or disposed of with coffee grounds/kitty litter in a sealed bag.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.