Safe Medication Disposal

Safely disposing of unused or expired medications helps protect our community, our families, and our environment. Proper disposal reduces the risk of accidental poisoning, misuse, and environmental contamination, and helps keep medications out of the hands of children, pets, and others for whom they were not prescribed.

Benton County Fire Protection District #2 supports safe medication disposal practices and encourages residents to use approved disposal programs available in Benton and Franklin Counties.

Why Safe Medication Disposal Is Important

Unneeded medications left in homes can:

• Increase the risk of accidental poisoning, especially for children and pets
• Be misused or diverted for non‑medical use
• Contribute to overdoses and other health emergencies
• Harm the environment if flushed or thrown away improperly

Medications should never be flushed down the toilet or placed in household trash unless specifically directed on the label.

How to Safely Dispose of Medications

There are two safe and approved ways for residents to dispose of medications in our area:

1. Medication Mail‑Back Programs 
   Residents can use free, approved mail‑back envelopes to safely and securely send unused or expired medications for proper disposal. These envelopes are designed to protect privacy and prevent environmental harm.
2. Medication Drop‑Off Kiosks 
   Secure medication drop‑off kiosks are available at participating pharmacies and law enforcement facilities. These kiosks allow residents to dispose of medications safely and anonymously during normal business hours.

What Can Be Disposed Of

Approved medication disposal programs typically accept:

• Prescription medications
• Over‑the‑counter medications
• Medications for both people and pets
• Pills, capsules, patches, and liquids (in sealed containers)

Medications may generally be returned in their original container or in a sealed bag.

What Cannot Be Disposed Of

Medication disposal programs do not accept:

• Business‑generated pharmaceutical waste
• Vitamins, supplements, or herbal remedies
• Cosmetics, personal care products, or toiletries
• Empty inhalers or medical devices without medication
• Illegal or illicit drugs
• Pet pesticides or livestock medications

Residents with questions about uncommon or specialized items should refer to official disposal guidance before attempting disposal.

Sharps and Syringes

Used syringes and sharps require special handling and should not be placed in medication kiosks. Residents who use needles for medical reasons should follow guidance from their waste collection provider or healthcare provider for proper sharps disposal.

Do not place loose needles in trash or recycling bins.

Learn More and Find Disposal Locations

Reliable, up‑to‑date information about safe medication disposal—including mail‑back options and nearby drop‑off kiosks—is available through local and state public health partners.

• Benton‑Franklin Health District
• Washington State Department of Health Safe Medication Return
• Drop Off Kiosk or Mailing Pouches