Why can't you dispose out of date prescription drugs down the toilet?

Disposing of out-of-date prescription drugs down the toilet can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life, as wastewater treatment facilities are not always equipped to remove pharmaceuticals. Additionally, improper disposal can lead to accidental ingestion by children or pets and contribute to drug abuse if the medications are misused. To prevent these risks, it's recommended to follow local guidelines for drug disposal, which often include take-back programs or specific disposal instructions.