Medication and Medical Sharps Disposal

Over -the-Counter and Prescription Medication

Click the button below to find a medication disposal location near you! 

To help ensure you are not turned away, please verify that a location is operating and can take your items prior to arrival. Medication Disposal Map Button Opens in new window

Commonly Accepted Items

The items below are usually accepted at participating pharmacies. If you have items that are not prescription or over-the-counter pills, call the facility to confirm prior to arrival.

Acceptable Materials

Unacceptable Materials

  • Antibiotics
  • Cold and Flu Medications
  • Medicated Ointments / Lotions
  • Medication Samples
  • Medications for Pets
  • Over-the-counter Medications
  • Prescription Medications
  • Steroids
  • Vitamins
  • Bloody or Infectious Waste
  • Cosmetics and Hair Care Products
  • Hydrogen Peroxide, Rubbing Alcohol, etc.
  • Inhalers 
  • IV Bags
  • Narcotics / Controlled Substances
  • Radioactive Items/ Chemotherapy medication
  • Sunscreen Products
  • Insect Repellents
  • Tobacco Products

Medical Sharps

Medical sharps are needles, syringes with attached needles, and disposable lancets.

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Controlled Substances

The "Big Red Barrel" program is a partnership with local law enforcement agencies where people can dispose of prescription or over-the-counter pills, including controlled substances like OxyContin, Vicodin, and Percocet - for free!

Pills only. No liquids, no syringes. 

View the list of location of Big Red Barrels in our area.

Additional Resources

Dispose of chemotherapy medication at ERG Environmental Services - (734) 437-9650 

If you are unable to utilize a take-back location, please review these guidelines from Michigan's Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).

Poison Control - 800-222-1222