How do medications get into wastewater?

Medications enter the sewer system and wind up at wastewater treatment plants in two ways: (1) human excretion, and (2) disposal of medications down the drain. Wastewater treatment plants remove most pollutants; however, not all medications are entirely removed. The levels of medication are small enough that they do not normally pose a threat to public health and the environment. To keep our treated water safe, please dispose of unwanted medications at a drug takeback location near you and encourage others to do the same.