Safe Medication Return
Safe Medication Return lets people appropriately dispose of unwanted household prescriptions and over-the-counter medications (including pet medication). Secure storage and safe disposal of medication helps reduce overdoses, poisonings and suicide attempts. Safely disposing of medication also keeps it out of our environment which helps protect our water and soil.
Household medications include liquids, ointments, pills, capsules, powders, patches and many other forms of medications. Medications accepted also include controlled substances, at-home chemotherapy medications, medical devices containing medications, inhalers and sharps (syringes).
Below are ways to dispose of household medications:
- Return to a drop-off location or kiosk.
- Return using a free, prepaid, preaddressed mailer.
- Attend a take back event.
Medications should be returned in the following format:
- Liquid medication should be returned in the original container or a securely closed container.
- Sharps must be capped.
- All other medications may be returned in their original container or in a sealed bag.
Remember to remove personal information from your returned containers to help protect your privacy and personal information.
Safe Medication Return programs do not accept the following:
- Illegal drugs (contact local law enforcement for assistance).
- Vitamins, minerals, or supplements.
- Homeopathic or herbal remedies.
- Cannabis products.
- Personal care products (sunscreen, shampoo, soap, etc.).
- Exposed sharps.
- Livestock medications.
- Pesticides.
- Medical devices without medications.
You can find convenient medication drop-off locations and order free medication collection mailers at medtakebackwashington.org or 844-4-TAKE-BACK (TTY 711).
If you have additional questions regarding Safe Medication Return Programs, please visit the Department of Health Safe medication Return webpage.
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