Managing Medication

Proper disposal of medication helps prevent drug abuse, accidental ingestion, and the contamination of our water supplies.
Most medications should not be flushed, unless directed on the label, since they are are not completely removed by wastewater treatment processes or septic systems. Medication that is flushed down the toilet can impact the health of fish and other wildlife.
You have the power to protect your family and community’s health!

What to do with unwanted meds? SEe 3 easy options below.

1.Drug Take-Back DAYS

Search here for DEA Drug Take Back Day locations.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a nationwide collection of expired and unwanted medications. The initiative is promoted by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and regional partners, including law enforcement agencies, water utilities, and health officials.
The service is free, and is generally offered in the spring and fall.

2. permanent Drop-box Locations

The DEA offers a searchable map, where you can find the nearest drop off box, year-round.
Find one near you: http://tiny.cc/eaeysz
Fairfax County also has a searchable map.

Generally the following is true for drop boxes, but if not sure, please check with the pharmacy or police station.
ACCEPTED for disposal:

Over-the-counter medications.
Prescription medications, including opioids and other controlled substances.
Prescription patches.
Creams and ointments.
Pet medications.

CANNOT be disposed:

Syringes or sharps.
Inhalers or aerosol cans.
Illicit drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, LSD and heroin.
Chemotherapy drugs.
Thermometers.

3. in the Trash

You can always safely dispose of medications in the trash, using the guidelines below.

Check the pill bottle for any instructions on proper disposal. If none are present, proceed to the following steps.

Remove medication from original containers. Do not crush tablets or capsules.
Mix medication with undesirable substance like kitty litter or used coffee grounds. The drugs will be less appealing to children and pets, and obfuscate the medicines that some people may seek by going through the trash.
Place mixture in a sealable, secure bag, can, or container.
Throw away sealed container and contents into garbage.
Scratch off all personal identifying information on the prescription label so that it is unreadable before recycling pill bottle or medicine container.