Find out how to locate a drug take-back bin in your area!
The federal grant-funded California Statewide Drug Take-Back Program has the express purpose of helping combat the opioid crisis and reduce the misuse of medications by expanding options for the public to safely discard unwanted medicines with a statewide network of take-back receptacles (bins). The program, administered by California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC), also promotes DHCS’ medication mail-back envelope program. Pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement departments interested in participating in CA Drug Take-Back Program and receiving a free medicine collection bin may complete the application here.
Bins can accept both controlled and non-controlled medications for people and pets. They will be placed across California at Drug Enforcement Agency-approved locations, including California-licensed pharmacies, hospitals or clinics with onsite pharmacies, and law enforcement departments. Grant funds will cover the cost of the drug take-back bins, professional installation, disposal services through August 2020, technical assistance, and promotion of the bin location throughout the duration of the project.
Pharmacies, law enforcement agencies, and health care facilities should consider applying today!
- Each bin helps to ensure that only the person prescribed the medication uses it. Safely disposing of medication that is no longer wanted or being used reduces risk of harm for children, pets, and seniors from consuming medications that are not intended for them. The opioid crisis has been fueled in part by people accessing unused or unwanted medications from friends and family members’ homes.
- Each bin saves taxpayer dollars. When medications are obtained by someone other than the intended patient, this can lead to addiction and poisonings.
- Each bin protects the environment. Medications poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet can result in higher concentrations of chemicals ending up in watersheds and local water supplies, potentially affecting wildlife and people.
- Your bin host location will be promoted at no cost to you. This program will raise awareness of your facility and may increase foot traffic.
Help us spread the word about the California Drug Take-Back Program and encourage friends and colleagues that work for pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement departments to complete the application today!