Talk to your medical or dental provider about other options for managing pain. Learn the facts about your medications and their risk for addiction and overdose. Store medicines in a locking cabinet, box, or bag and keep the key securely in another location. Keep an inventory of current medications to be aware if something goes
Nope! In 2018, the Skagit County Board of Health passed Skagit County Code (SCC) 12.2, Secure Medicine Return ordinance, requiring pharmaceutical producers to pay for the collection and disposal of leftover medications. All Skagit County residents can safely dispose of leftover medicines for free in three secure and convenient ways: physical drop boxes or kiosks in
National Drug Take Back Day is held every October and April by the DEA in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies. Community organizations and local coalitions focused on substance use prevention can also help organize and promote take back day events with law enforcement. Take Back Day events are strategies approved by the Washington State
Event organizers do not count, inventory, or log the medicines dropped off for disposal. Law enforcement agencies seal and store the boxes of collected medicine until they can be picked up for incineration by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Injectables or needles/syringes of any kind Intra-venous solutions Chemotherapy medications Medical waste Illegal drugs or marijuana Vaping devices with batteries that cannot be removed Thermometers with mercury
Prescriptions* Opioid and non-opioid medications in any form (pill, tablet, etc.) Pet medications Over-the-counter medications* Any expired and unused medicines or vitamins *For liquids, keep them tightly sealed in their original container
When you get unneeded medicines out of your house, you decrease the risk of intentional misuse or overdose by teens, family members, or guests in your home. You also decrease the risk of accidental poisoning to children and pets which are, sadly, all too common. Medicine thrown in the trash can still do harm. When
