We’ve all seen the packets in prescription bottles that warn against consuming their contents, but a pharmacist explains why people should continue to keep these packets with their medicines rather than throwing them away.
exclusive news
Pharmacist Dr. Kim (@pharmakaresolutions) has dozens of TikTok videos that clearly explain medications and supplements. In one video, she discussed why silicone packaging with “Do Not Eat” labels are found in pill bottles and urged her followers to keep them.
“Don’t throw it away,” Dr. King said. “I repeat, don’t throw it away.”
In the video, Dr. Kim explains that silica gel is a desiccant that absorbs moisture and keeps medications dry. This way, pharmacists say, the medicine retains its potency better.
Dr. Kim also highlighted the labeling on the packaging, reminding TikTok users that silicone should not be consumed and to keep children away from the packaging.
how does it help
According to GoodRx, the cost of prescription drugs has increased 37% in the past 10 years. In 2024, Americans will spend $61 billion out-of-pocket on prescription drugs. Placing a silicone bag inside the medicine bottle will help preserve the medication and delay the need for refills.
GoodRx also notes that most curbside recycling programs do not accept empty prescription bottles. These bottles are often made from polypropylene, a recyclable material, but most programs fail to recycle them properly.
Empty prescription bottles are often thrown into crowded landfills or oceans. CNN reports that the world dumps 2,000 truckloads of plastic into the ocean every day. Reducing waste can help protect the environment from pollution and clean up landfills.
You can always recycle empty pill bottles instead of throwing them away. For example, creative people can use these bottles as makeshift craft containers. If you’re a gardener, prescription bottles are the best size for storing seeds.
what is everyone talking about
Some followers of Dr. King are unaware of the benefits of silicone packs. Some of them jumped into the comments section to thank her for the reminder.
“Thank you!” one commenter wrote. “Didn’t know about that.”
“Trust me, you’re not the only one!” Dr. King responded.
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