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Medications & Prescription Drugs

Hazardous material

Don't flush unused medications unless the FDA specifically lists that exact drug on its Flush List, and don't put them in household trash either. Take them to a DEA-authorized take-back location (many pharmacies have a permanent kiosk) year-round, use a mail-back envelope, or bring them to a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event. Disposing of needles and syringes is a separate process, see our sharps guide.

Curbside recycling?

No

Never place medications in curbside trash or recycling, or flush them down the toilet or sink unless the specific drug is on the FDA's Flush List.

Safety note

Unused medications left in the home are a real risk of accidental ingestion by children, pets, or misuse by others. The FDA's Flush List covers only 13 active ingredients (mostly opioids like fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine) that can be lethal in a single dose, flushing is a last resort for those specific drugs only, not a general disposal method.

How to prepare it

  • Keep medications in their original, labeled containers when bringing them to a take-back location
  • Use the DEA's online locator to find a year-round authorized collection site, many pharmacies have a permanent drop-box
  • Only check the FDA's Flush List if no take-back location or mail-back envelope is available to you, and only flush a drug that's specifically named on that list

Common fees

Free at DEA-authorized take-back locations and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day events. Some pharmacy mail-back envelopes are sold, not free.

Quantity limits

Not confirmed

Residency restrictions

Not confirmed

Appointment required?

No appointment needed at a permanent DEA-authorized collection site during its normal hours. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a specific scheduled date (the next one is October 24, 2026), not a year-round option.

Transporting it safely

Keep medications in their original containers during transport, don't combine pills from multiple bottles into one container.

Nearby locations

Related items

Frequently asked questions

Where can I recycle medications & prescription drugs?
Don't flush unused medications unless the FDA specifically lists that exact drug on its Flush List, and don't put them in household trash either. Take them to a DEA-authorized take-back location (many pharmacies have a permanent kiosk) year-round, use a mail-back envelope, or bring them to a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event. Disposing of needles and syringes is a separate process, see our sharps guide.
Can medications & prescription drugs go in curbside recycling?
Never place medications in curbside trash or recycling, or flush them down the toilet or sink unless the specific drug is on the FDA's Flush List.
Is there a safety concern with medications & prescription drugs?
Unused medications left in the home are a real risk of accidental ingestion by children, pets, or misuse by others. The FDA's Flush List covers only 13 active ingredients (mostly opioids like fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine) that can be lethal in a single dose, flushing is a last resort for those specific drugs only, not a general disposal method.
Last verified 2026-09-15

Sources

Programs, hours, fees, eligibility, and accepted materials can change. Confirm details with the facility before traveling.

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