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Medication and Sharps Disposal
New Statewide Program for Free Disposal of Medication, Sharps, and Inhalers
Thanks to Senate Bill 212, California residents can safely and confidentially dispose of expired, unused, or unwanted medications, sharps, and inhalers for free at approved State-sponsored drop-off locations or by requesting mail-back kits. Click here to get started. This new program will complement the programs in the City, and staff will update this webpage frequently as the program continues to roll out across the State.
FAQs About Medications and Sharps
What is a controlled substance?
In general, controlled substances are drugs or chemicals regulated by the federal government because of their known detrimental effects on people’s health and well-being. Controlled substances are broken down into five categories, or schedules, based on medical use, relative abuse potential, and the likelihood of a user developing dependence when abused. It is a common misconception that all controlled substances are illegal. Not all are, but because many Schedule I drugs are illegal, most drug take-back programs don’t accept them.
What if my auto-injector has a drug product in it?
Please place it in an approved sharps container with the rest of your home-generated medical sharps.
Why can’t inhalers go in the medication disposal bins?
There are two main reasons. First, the inhaler may still contain medication. Second, inhaler cartridges are considered compressed gas cylinders, which are hazardous wastes. If the manufacturer does not provide disposal instructions, here are the disposal procedures: If the canister is empty, place it in the trash. If not empty, bring it to Lynn Oaks Compounding Pharmacy (see above).
May I transport prescription medications that are not prescribed to me?
No, it is illegal to possess prescription drugs in California without a valid prescription for them or authority to transport them.
Does the City’s HHW Facility accept medications?
No, the HHW Facility does not accept medications for disposal, only home-generated sharps.
