Problems of storing unused or outdated medications:
(1) Diversion for abuse if the drug is a controlled substance.
(2) Accidental ingestion by a small child or pet.
(3) Accidental ingestion when mistaken for another medication that has a similar appearance.
(4) Treating a disorder using a drug that is no longer potent.
(5) Treating a disorder with an inappropriate drug.
Reasons people keep pharmaceuticals around:
(1) general tendency to hoard things
(2) not wanting to throw away something that cost a lot of money
(3) just might need it again
(4) lack of awareness of potential hazards
(5) not sure of how to dispose of the drugs properly
