GOOD TO DO
Find a Disposal Location Near You
- The ideal way to dispose of unwanted medication is to use a medication take-back program. Contact your local pharmacy, police department, hospital or use the DEA certified disposal location lookup tool to find a location near you.
- The DEA hosts nationwide medication take back events each year in April and October. Learn more about upcoming events by visiting the DEA National Take Back Day website.
Safely Dispose of Medications at Home
- Crush solid medications or dissolve them in water.
- Mix with kitty litter, sawdust, or anything else that will make the drug unavailable or unappealing for a pet or child to eat. This also works with liquid medications.
- Store medications in their original container. Being able to quickly identify the medication is helpful in case a child or pet accidentally ingests it.
- Mark out all identifying personal information on the prescription label.
- Seal the bottle with the lid.
- Place the medicine bottle inside a non-recyclable container before placing into the trash to further disguise the medication.
