Don't forget the medicine cabinet the next time you clean your bathroom. Unless you are conscientious about disposing of expired and unused medicines, that cabinet probably needs a look. Getting rid of them ensures that they won't end up with people (or pets) who shouldn't have them.

Although it's tempting to toss those old meds into the trash or flush them down the toilet, you should take a minute to make sure you are disposing of them properly.

Here are some safe ways to dispose of unused or expired medicines:

"Take-back" program. Some pharmacies and other groups collect and dispose of unused and expired medicines. Drop off the old medicines you no longer need at the take-back location. Some locations may collect year-round, while others may have specific take-back events.

Flush method. Check the flush list of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (visit fda.gov/drugs) to see if you can flush your medicine down the toilet. Flush your medication only if it's on the flush list.

Trash method. Mix the medicines with an unwanted substance, such as cat litter or used coffee grounds. Place the mixture in a sealable bag and toss it in the trash. Remove all personal information from medicine containers before discarding them.

Sharps are objects that can puncture or cut skin with their sharp points or edges, such as auto injectors, lancets and needles. People and pets are at risk if used needles and other sharps aren't disposed of safely. They can injure people and pets and spread infections.

• Dispose of used sharps with specifically designed containers. They are available at pharmacies and medical supply stores, from health care providers, and online.

• Do not put loose needles and other sharps in household or public trash cans or recycling bins. Don't flush them, either.

Contact your Watson Clinic Family Medicine or Internal Medicine provider if you have questions about disposing of your medicines.

Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration