When you put unused prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications down the drain, they go through the sewer system and eventually enter our lakes, streams, and rivers. Many of our wastewater treatment systems are not designed or equipped to remove medications from waste water. In homes that use septic tanks, prescription and over-the-counter drugs put down the drain can leach into the ground and seep into groundwater.

When these medications enter the environment, they can negatively affect fish and other aquatic wildlife, and end up in our drinking water supply.

Check out our locator map to find a take-back location near you.

If you don't see one listed, contact your local law enforcement agency to see if the precinct offers take-back services, or check the National Community Pharmacy Association's (NCPA) Dispose My Meds Program website's locator map for pharmacies that may be participating in a take-back program. It's recommended that you call first to make sure they still participate. Note that pharmacies cannot accept controlled substances. Consult your city for proper disposal of needles and other sharps.

Watch for advertisements of medicine take-back events on this website, your city's website, or in your water bill inserts. These events provide a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of medicine while also educating the general public about the potential for medication abuse. The federal Drug Enforcement Agency sponsors take-back events twice per year.

You can also send in some medications to take-back services by a paid envelope. Here is one option: http://www.sharpsinc.com/pharmaceutical-waste

As a last resort, dispose of medicines in your household trash. You can do this by mixing medicines with a substance like kitty litter or used coffee grounds, placing that mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag or bottle with a screw top and place that container in the trash.

As a last resort, you can dispose of medicines in your household trash.

You can do this by mixing medicines with a substance like kitty litter or used coffee grounds, placing that mixture in a container such as a sealed plastic bag or bottle with a lid and place that container in the trash.