What should pharmacy technicians do if they encounter an expired medication?

When pharmacy technicians encounter an expired medication, disposing of it according to proper waste protocols is crucial because expired medications can pose safety risks to patients. They may lose efficacy or develop harmful compounds over time, making their use potentially dangerous. Proper disposal methods ensure that these medications are handled in a way that prevents accidental ingestion, environmental contamination, and abuse.

Using designated waste protocols, which may include incineration or returning to a licensed disposal facility, aligns with legal regulations and best practices in pharmacy operations. This responsibility emphasizes the importance of maintaining patient safety and complying with health laws regarding medication management.

The other options, such as repacking and labeling expired medications, returning them to inventory, or storing them separately for verification, do not address the inherent risks associated with using expired medications and could lead to patient harm or legal repercussions.