Dangers of Unused Prescription Drugs (Rx)    

Unused prescription drugs from humans and pets can cause both physical and environmental harm. 

• These drugs, when not properly disposed of, can end up in our rivers, lakes, streams, and groundwater. 
• Studies have shown that they are not effectively removed through treatment in private septic systems nor our municipal wastewater treatment plants.
• It is not recommended that old or unused drugs be flushed down the toilet.
• They are more frequently being detected in surface waters and negatively impacting aquatic life.
• Low level consumption through contaminated drinking water may have negative effects on people. 
• Unused drugs can cause injury or even death if they end up in the hands of individuals that may misuse them.

Rx Collection Programs

Rock County was one of the first counties in the nation to initiate a prescription drug collection program, with key partnerships with local law enforcement, pharmacists, and community leaders. Rock County has increased its collection of unwanted drugs from 288 pounds in its first collection in 2006 to over 4,000 pounds annually in recent years. Since 2006, this program has removed over 30 tons of unwanted drugs from potential environmental or physical misuse.

Currently, there are ten law enforcement agencies that have ‘drug drop boxes’ conveniently located at their public entrances. Drug collection events are also periodically held at community activities such as Senior Fairs and Farmers' Markets.

Find a Drug Drop Box near you

Find a Drug Collection Event near you

Resources

• Medication Safety and Disposal (Janesville Mobilizing 4 Change)
• Safe Disposal of Rx and Sharps (DHS)
• Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal (DNR)
• Rx Drug Take-Back Day (DOJ)
• Rx Drug Disposal (FDA)