As the number of prescriptions written in the United States continues to grow, we are presented with many challenges, including how to safely dispose of our outdated and unused medications.
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Over the years, there has been a growing concern about the negative effect on our health as medications are thrown out and the chemicals gain entry into our water, soil and food.
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Another concern is the growing abuse of prescription medications by teenagers and young adults.
According to the Partnership for a Drug Free America:
- 6 out of 10 teens agree that prescription drugs are easy to get from parents’ medicine cabinets
- 4 out of 10 teens think that prescription drugs are safer to use than illegal drugs
Medication Drop Boxes
The proper disposal of medication prevents accidental use, intentional misuse, and protects the environment.
Currently there are a number of police departments across the country that have set up medication drop boxes, where people can safely and easily and anonymously dispose of their unused medication.
Connecticut
In this area of CT, medication drop boxes have been set up at the Greenwich, Darien, New Canaan and Wilton Police Departments.
According to the CT Department of Consumer Protection “These boxes are secured in the lobby of the police department, and are accessible anytime the department is open. No questions asked, just drop the unwanted medications in and they will be safely and securely destroyed.”
What CAN and CANNOT be discarded in local medication drop boxes.
YES:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medications
- Medication samples
- Medications for household pets
- Medicated lotions or ointments
NO:
- Needles or other “sharps”
- Hazardous waste
- Thermometers
- Personal care products (shampoo, etc.)
Westchester County
Westchester County NY has also established medication drop boxes at many local police departments.
Some of the participating police departments in Westchester County include:
- Bedford
- Greenburgh
- Mount Vernon
- Port Chester
- Rye Brook
- Scarsdale
- White Plains
The Caregiver Resource Center
The Caregiver Resource Center assists seniors, people with special needs and their families in planning for and implementing ways to allow for the greatest degree of independence, safety and quality of life.
We are available 7 days a week by appointment, and 24/7 for emergencies. All of our services are individually designed to meet the unique needs of the client and their family.
For more information, or to request an initial consultation, please contact:
Linda Ziac, LPC, LADC, BCPC, CEAP, CCM, CDP
The Caregiver Resource Center
Greenwich, CT
203-861-9833
The information in this article is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, does not create any patient provider relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Please consult your health care provider for an appointment, before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition.
To learn more about health and mental topics and to become a more educated self advocate, please subscribe to this blog or visit us at www.CaregiverResourceCenter.com
