Prescription Medication Disposal

 

Picture of prescription drugs Federal regulations prohibit any household hazardous waste collection site from accepting controlled substances without prior approval from the Drug Enforcement Administration. A controlled substance is a drug, which due to its abuse potential, is regulated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

The City of Mesa has received temporary federal government approval to accept prescription drugs during its Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events.

 

Alternative Option:

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), most drugs can be disposed of in your regular household trash but consumers should take certain precautions before tossing them out.  Always remember to follow any specific disposal instructions that accompanies your medication.  Do not flush prescription or non-prescription drugs down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless this information specifically instructs you to do so.  Instead, follow these guidelines from the U.S. Dept. of Justice Office of Diversion Control:

 

  1. Take drug(s) out of original container.
  2. Mix drug(s) with an undesirable substance such as coffee grounds or kitty litter.
  3. Put mixture in a nondescript container, such as an empty can with a lid or a sealable bag.  This will help insure these drugs are not diverted or accidentally ingested by children or pets.
  4. Place in your black trash barrel under waste so that it is not visible.

 

 

 

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Solid Waste Management Department

Customer Service
(480) 644-2221

Clean Sweep/Green Sweep
(480) 644-4791

Department Managers

Mailing address:
P.O. Box 1466
Mesa, AZ 85211

Walk-in service requests/payments:
55 N. Center St.
Mesa, AZ 85201

6935 E. Decatur St.
Mesa, AZ 85207

Office Hours:
Monday-Thursday
7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Closed Fridays & holidays

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All other service requests should be directed to Customer Service

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