How to Safely Dispose of Unused or Old Medications in Connecticut

Properly disposing of unused or unwanted medications is crucial for protecting both the environment and your community. Below are safe and easy options for medication disposal:

1. Drop-Off Boxes

   Many police stations have drug drop-off boxes in their lobbies where you can safely dispose of medications. You can drop off:

   • Over-the-counter medications
   • Prescription medications
   • Medication samples
   • Medications for household pets
   • Medicated lotions or ointments
2. Medicine Disposal Envelopes

   You can purchase medicine disposal envelopes from chain pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreens, or Rite Aid. These envelopes allow you to safely send medications for proper disposal.

3. One-Day Medicine Collections

   Occasionally, organizations or government agencies sponsor one-day medicine collections. These events are typically:

   • Not regularly scheduled
   • Open only to residents of the sponsoring town
   • Keep an eye out for local announcements to participate.
4. Flushing Medications

   You can flush medications down the toilet only if:

   • The medication label instructs you to do so
   • The medication is listed on the FDA’s “flush list.”

   To check if a medication is on the FDA's flush list, visit the FDA website.

5. Disposing of Medications in the Trash

   You can dispose of medications in the trash if no other options are available. To ensure safety:

   • Tape the medication container lid shut
   • Place the container inside a non-transparent bag or container to conceal it

   Important: Do NOT place medications in your recycling bin. Most garbage in Connecticut is burned at high temperatures, which destroys the medication.