Disposal
Medicines From Individual Residents Only
What will the pharmacist accept for disposal?
Prescription medications (Non-controlled)
Antibiotics/steroids
Cold and flu medications
Vitamins/herbal supplements
Pet medications
Medication Samples
Medicated ointments/lotions
How do I prepare the medication?
For both solids (pills) and liquids bring medications in their original container. Block out ALL identifying personal information on the prescription label. Do not remove the name of the medication .The pharmacist must be able to see the medication type so he/she can properly sort it. Bring the bottle to the participating pharmacist so he/she can properly sort and dispose of the medication.
What won't the pharmacist accept?
Controlled substances (take these to a law enforcement drop box)
Sharps - Needles, lancets, syringes, epipens (see below for other options)
IV bags
Hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, etc.
Aerosol Cans
Electronic devices – diabetes testers etc.
Thermometers
Empty containers
Business Waste – schools, medical offices, group homes other health care facilities
How To Dispose of Unacceptable Items
Controlled Substances
Examples of controlled substances are amphetamines, Valium, Ritalin, morphine, methadone and oxycodone. These drugs have a high potential for abuse. Current regulations allow only the patient or law enforcement to legally have custody of the drug. Medications that the DEA considers controlled substances, can be dropped off at a local law enforcement agency.
Law Enforcement Drop Box Locations
List of Common Controlled Substances
Intravenous Bags
Empty bags go in trash (not recyclable) If the bag contains a fluid return the bag to the home care provider, pharmacy or other medical provider. They can dispose of the waste safely and properly. It is not recommended that chemotherapy agents be disposed in the trash or poured down the drain.
Household Generated Sharps
Check with your local Health Department to see if they have a program available for sharps disposal. DO NOT bring needles, epipens, etc. to a pharmacy for disposal through the WM Take Back Meds Program. You can purchase mail back containers at most pharmacies or you can link to the following sites to purchase mail back containers. Sharps Disposal by Mail System ®.
Household generated sharps may be disposed in the trash, provided:
Sharps are enclosed inside a rigid , puncture resistant containers
Containers encasing sharps are sealed and labeled “not for recycling”
Certain containers found in the household, particularly plastic bleach and laundry detergent containers are satisfactory for disposal of sharps. Not milk jugs or a thin-sided container
Household Hazardous Waste Program
Contact local Household Hazardous Waste Program for disposal of: Hydrogen peroxide, rubbing alcohol, etc.
Aerosol Cans
Mercury containing products; thermometers, batteries
Pesticides; Lice shampoos, flea baths & powders, insecticides
Nail polish & nail polish remover, perfumes
>> Kent County Household Hazardous Waste Program
Acceptable To Trash
Personal care products – lotions, soap, shampoo, suntan lotion, deodorants, non-flammable cosmetics, and other non-medicated products you apply to your body.>> Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment Rules for Business waste: Mixed Medical Waste Guidance
