Table 1.

Types of pharmaceutical waste.

Type	Description
Over-the-counter waste	Medications purchased over-the-counter without a prescription. (e.g., medications for colds, coughs, headaches, etc.)
Non-hazardous drug waste	Non-hazardous or non-controlled prescription medications. (e.g., diabetes, blood pressure medications, etc.)
Hazardous drug waste	Involves any waste that can potentially result in death or serious illness or pose significant hazards to human health or the environment if improperly stored, disposed of, transported, or treated. (e.g., chemotherapeutic agents). Hazardous drugs are highly regulated and must be collected and disposed of properly.
Controlled drug waste	Classified as drugs that are highly addictive and if taken in large amounts, can be toxic. (e.g., narcotics). Highly regulated and require disposal by a regulatory agency or company.
Veterinary and Agricultural use pharmaceuticals	Drugs used for veterinary and agricultural purposes. (e.g., antibiotics)