Which statement is true regarding the disposal of medication?

Disposing of medication in a safe manner is crucial to avoid environmental harm and protect public health. When medications are not disposed of correctly, they can contaminate water sources, soil, and harm wildlife. Safe disposal practices include returning unused medications to designated take-back programs or following local disposal guidelines that often recommend specific methods for different types of medications.

Considering the other options, flushing medications is typically only recommended for specific drugs, primarily those that could pose an immediate safety risk if ingested by someone other than the intended patient. Disposing of medications in regular trash can lead to accidental ingestion by children, pets, or wildlife, making it a hazardous choice. Finally, the idea that all medications can be thrown out without restriction overlooks the importance of ensuring that harmful substances do not end up in the environment. Therefore, option C accurately reflects proper disposal practices and emphasizes the need for responsible handling of medications.