Medication Wasteland

Don't know where or how to dispose of your unused medication? Read on and find out how!

If you went to your medicine cabinet right now and took out only the medications you use frequently, what would you be left with? If you’re anything like me you probably have that antibiotic you didn’t finish two years ago or that pain medication you picked up when you had your root canal last spring.   

Many times we end up placing our unwanted medications in our medicine cabinets, creating a potentially dangerous graveyard of medication.  In the past we were told to throw them out with coffee grounds or flush them down the toilet. While effective, these methods are considered unsafe. There are new methods in place to safely dispose of your unwanted medication.

 

<Photo courtesy of houstonherald.com>

Cleaning Up Your Wasteland

What medication is accepted?

First, we need to determine which kinds of medication and prescriptions are accepted at medication disposal sites.

Accepted

Prescription medication (tablets, liquids, creams)

Over-the-counter medication (vitamins, pain reliever)

Inhalers

Nebulizer solution

Not Accepted

IV Bags

Oxygen Tanks

Nebulizers

Schedule II Medications (Morphine, Adderall®) *varies by location

To dispose of any items not listed above you should contact your disposal site to see what is accepted.

Where Do I Take Unwanted Medication?

Surprisingly, there are many ways you can dispose of your unwanted medication in a safe and effective way.  In fact, most local Police Departments will take your unwanted medication at any time. They will either have a drop box where you can drop them off, or they will take them and drop them off for you.  Some cities and counties have organized events dedicated to medication disposal where you can bring your unwanted medications to a specific location at a specific time.

Will My Local Hometown Pharmacy Dispose of my Medication?

Yes, of course! Each Hometown pharmacy is equipped to safely and effectively dispose of your medication. Simply bring your unwanted medication to any Hometown Pharmacy and tell your pharmacist you would like to dispose of them.  If you do not live near a Hometown Pharmacy you can find a disposal site near you by visiting www.disposemymeds.org. It really is that simple.

Now go forth and make your medicine cabinet a clean, safe place.