How do I Dispose of Medical Waste?

Needles that are improperly disposed of pose a serious health and safety risk. Sharps should never be thrown in your recycling bin, even if they are secured inside of another container. Sanitation workers may come in contact with these needles and contract serious diseases. Thankfully, there are many safe and easy options available. Many online and local services offer mail-back services and exchange programs. Please contact your local pharmacy or drugstore for more details. Alternatively, some communities offer services such as drop-off sites, household hazardous waste centers, and special waste pick up services.  Please check with your village to find out if these services are available in your area. As a last resort, place your used sharps in a FDA-cleared red sharps container. When it is 3/4 full, duct tape it shut and place it in your trash and not your recycling.

Medication and drugs are difficult to break down, and should not be washed down the drain or thrown in the trash. When medication is not disposed properly, it ends up in our lakes, rivers, streams, and groundwater. The best option to dispose of unwanted or extra pills is to use your pharmacy’s take-back program, or give them to your local police department. If programs are not offered, the American Pharmacist Association recommends to first, crush and dissolve the medication as best as possible. Afterwards, mix it with an unappetizing substance such as kitty litter or coffee grounds, place this mixture in a sealed bag, and throw it away.

Prescription bottles are not a part of your curbside recycling program and should be placed in your trash. If you prefer to recycle your used prescription bottle, verify it is completely empty and check with your local pharmacy. Many drugstores offer recycling alternatives for these small items.

Eyeglasses can be placed in your curbside garbage container! If you prefer to recycle, there are many easy alternatives. Frames can be reused and lenses can be replaced if taken to an optometrist. Additionally, the Lions Club will accept any pair of used glasses to be cleaned and repaired and then to be donated to those in need. Please contact your local Lions Club for more details.