If you have old prescription bottles in your bathroom closet, there is a proper way to dispose of them.

Experts say you typically want to avoid extreme heat and cold temperatures, as well as sunlight.

Also, avoid storing pill bottles near windows and avoid bathrooms that hold moisture.

To get rid of unused or expired medicines, put them in a bag of kitty liter or dirt - that will absorb any toxins before throwing them away. Officials say old prescriptions should not be flushed down the toilet, something many people do.

"There is now a new program that allows pharmacies that are registered to have a take back program," said Scott Mcauley, a pharmacist with Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. "And so, you can always check with your local pharmacist."

US calling for lower flouride level in drinking water

The government is lowering the recommended level of fluoride in drinking water for the first time in more than 50 years.

Health officials say some people are getting too much fluoride now because it is also added to toothpaste, mouthwash and other products.

Too much fluoride has become a common cause of splotches on teeth. One study found about 2 out of 5 adolescents have tooth streaking or spottiness from too much fluoride.

The government first began urging cities to add fluoride to drinking water in 1962.

The change announced Monday finalizes a proposal first made four years ago.