Dispose of Prescription Medications Safely
Unused and expired prescription medications can pose serious risks if they are kept in the home or disposed of improperly. Whether they are forgotten in a medicine cabinet or no longer needed after an illness or surgery, medications should be disposed of safely to help prevent accidental poisoning, misuse, and environmental contamination.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Keeping unused medications increases the risk of accidental ingestion by children, pets, and others in the home. Prescription drugs can also become a target for misuse or diversion when left unsecured. Proper disposal helps reduce these risks while protecting local water systems and the environment.
The Best Way to Dispose of Medications
The safest and most effective way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications is to use an authorized drug take-back location. These secure collection sites ensure medications are handled and destroyed safely.
Many pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies provide permanent medication drop boxes that are available year-round. Before visiting, check the location's accepted items and operating hours.
What Can Be Dropped Off?
Most medication disposal sites accept:
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter medications
- Tablets and capsules
- Ointments and creams
- Liquid medications (when properly sealed)
- Pet medications
Help Keep Our Community Safe
Properly disposing of unused medications is a simple step that helps protect your family and your community. By removing unnecessary medications from your home and using an approved disposal site, you can help prevent accidental poisonings, reduce prescription drug misuse, and keep harmful substances out of the environment.