Old and Expired Medicines

Old and Expired Medicines – DO NOT THROW IN TRASH OR FLUSH!

Both prescription drugs and over– the-counter medications can pollute the environment if disposed of improperly.  Drugs flushed down the toilet can contaminate water sources and drugs thrown in the trash have the potential to leach out into the landfill and pollute soil and groundwater.

So what can you do?  Just like CFLs, you have a couple of options for the proper disposal of old and unused medications.

• Old medicines are accepted by SOCRRA through our Household Hazardous Waste Program by calling 248-288- 5153 to schedule an appointment.   To prepare old medicines, empty all medicines into an unmarked zip-top plastic bag. 

• CVS stores announced in September 2011 that all 7200 of its locations will now offer customers an affordable way to safely dispose of unused, expired or unwanted medications.  For $3.99 customers can purchase a postage-paid envelope and mail their medicines to a company for safe disposal.  Check with your local CVS or your own pharmacy to see if this service is available.