TAKE BACK AND MAIL BACK LOCATIONS:

MED-Project provides safe disposal locations throughout Marin in drugstores, police departments, county offices, and more. Click here to find locations. Call 1-833-Med-Project if you have any questions or problems with kiosks.

Inmar’s Safe Medicine Drop provides mail back supplies at many pharmacies and other locations throughout the County. Click here to find locations or to request an envelope be mailed to you.

 Safe Storage and Disposal FAQs:

What is “safe storage”? 

The CDC recommends keeping prescription medication in a place that is out of reach of children and pets. Some medications, including opioids, pose serious health risks when misused and should be kept in a locked box or drawer if possible.

How often should I dispose of medications?

The DEA recommends that you clean out your medicine cabinet twice a year. Safe disposal sites are available year-round, most often at pharmacies. 

Why is it important to properly dispose of prescriptions?

Regularly disposing of your medications prevents intentional and unintentional drug misuse and injury. Every year, about two million people end up in the hospital due to drug-related injuries, including medication errors, adverse drug reactions, and overdoses. Children, youth, and the elderly are especially at risk for injury and overdose. Among people who misuse prescription pain relievers like opioids, the most common source for the meds is a friend or relative.

Improper disposal can also have harmful environmental effects. Flushing medications can cause a variety of consequences in waterways and negatively impact our communities.

How do I properly dispose of my prescriptions?

You can either drop off or mail back your unwanted or expired prescriptions.

1. Place pills in either their original packaging (with labels removed for privacy) or put assorted pills in a sealable plastic bag. Liquids in bottles can be placed in sealable plastic bags, as well.

2. Next, find your nearest disposal or mail-back site using the two local site finders on our site. If preferred, request a mail-back envelope be sent directly to your home.