Federal Law & Regulations
The Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010 amended the Controlled Substances Act, allowing the DEA to develop regulations for the public to safely dispose of unused or expired controlled substances. This authorized pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies to maintain secure collection receptacles. The EPA also finalized the Management Standards for Hazardous Waste Pharmaceuticals in 2019, explicitly banning healthcare facilities from flushing hazardous waste pharmaceuticals down the drain.
National Take-Back Programs
The DEA hosts 'National Prescription Drug Take Back Day' biannually (typically April and October) at thousands of locations nationwide. Year-round, major retail pharmacy chains like Walgreens and CVS have installed secure drop-boxes in thousands of their locations. You can anonymously drop off solid medications; liquid medications must be kept in sealed containers. Sharps (needles) and illicit drugs are strictly prohibited in these bins.