Medication Disposal

Some medications are effectively removed or broken down by sewage treatment; other medications can pass through treatment and enter the environment unchanged. Although the potential impact of pharmaceuticals in the environment is unknown, the best way to minimize the possible effects is to dispose of unused or expired medications at a local MRP-participating pharmacy.

Medication that goes down the drain ends up in the ocean, where it can have a negative effect on the marine environment. Medication in household garbage is not only easily accessible to children, pets and wildlife, but once it reaches the landfill, it can enter the leachate collection system and eventually wind up in the marine environment.

No. The collection, transportation and final disposal of waste medication is funded by the Health Products Stewardship Association (HPSA).

The waste is collected in a sealed blue MRP bucket, which, once full, is shipped to a licensed facility for incineration. At the facility, the content of the MRP bucket is incinerated at high temperatures so that the waste is neutralized.

Transfer dry medication to a clear bag but keep liquids and creams in their original containers. Do not mix sharps in with the medication. Make sure to remove all personal information.

Some local pharmacies accept needles and syringes for disposal. Check first with your pharmacist to see if they accept needles and syringes. If they do not, Island Health has a list of safe disposal sites.

No. Only medications for human use can be disposed of under the Medications Return Program. The MRP is not required under the British Columbia Recycling Regulation to accept veterinary medications and there are currently no programs for the collection and disposal of veterinary medications.

However, the same concerns exist with veterinary medications as with human medication, so the waste should not be disposed of down the drain or in the garbage. Speak with your local vet about proper disposal options

Yes. Herbal medications and mineral and vitamin supplements are accepted under the Medications Return Program.

No. Doctors’ offices and hospitals are not equipped to dispose of medications from the public.