Proper Disposal of Unused Medications
Board of Pharmacy to Offer Controlled Substance Disposal Locations to the Public
The Board of Pharmacy has provided an opportunity for North Dakota pharmacies to offer a drug disposal program. Participating pharmacies are providing access to a secure and safe way to dispose of controlled substances for their patients. This will provide a mechanism to reduce the amount of medications in a patient's residence to assure they are not diverted or misused. Information about participating pharmacy locations along with the ND Attorney General's Take Back program location can be accessed at the following link: Disposal location options. For North Dakota pharmacies: Please contact the Board office if you are interested in offering this service.
Guidelines for Drug Disposal
If you would like to donate your unused medications, please click here to see if you are eligible.
Follow any specific disposal instructions on the drug label or patient information that accompanies the medication. Do not flush prescription drugs down the toilet unless this information specifically instructs you to do so. For a list of medications recommended for disposal by flushing, please visit the following FDA website:
If a drug-take back or collection program is not available in your area, and no disposal instructions are given on the medication label or information packet, throw the drugs in the trash; but first:
- Take them out of their original containers and mix them with an undesirable substance, such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter. The medication will be less appealing to children, pets, and people who may go through your trash.
- Put them in a sealable bag, empty can, or other container to prevent the medication from leaking or breaking out of a garbage bag.
- Be sure to scratch out any personal information on the label to make it unreadable. This will help protect your identity and the privacy of your health information.
- Do not give medication to friends. Doctors prescribe drugs based on a person’s specific symptoms and medical history. A drug that works for you could be dangerous for someone else.
- When in doubt about proper disposal, ask your pharmacist or visit the following websites: