How to get rid of unwanted prescriptions on National Prescription Drug Removal Day

(WXMI) — An annual tradition has returned. It’s National Medicine Take Back Day.

According to the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), it is a day used to encourage the public to remove unnecessary medications from their homes as a means of preventing medication abuse and opioid addiction.

It’s a simple process.

Check your medicine cabinet, drawers, or wherever you keep these old, expired, or unwanted prescription medications. As for disposing of them, there are many options in Western Michigan.

Priority Health shared some locations in West Michigan, open Saturdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.:

• Kent County Health Department: 700 Fuller Ave. NE, Grand Rapids
• Corewell Health Grand Rapids Hospitals Care Center: Cutlerville 80 68th St., Grand Rapids
• Priority Health Care: 3111 Leonard St. NE, Grand Rapids

East Grand Rapids Public Health is also hosting an open house today from 10am – 2pm at their location at 770 Lakeside Drive SE. In addition to lobby drop-offs, they are available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m
Meijer stores also participate in National Medicines Take Back Day.

We’re told anyone, customer or not, can drop off unwanted medications at “easily recognizable” kiosks near any in-store pharmacy. Over the years, Meijer has collected almost 200 tons of unnecessary medicines in its kiosks.

However, some items are not accepted. This includes: needles or other sharp objects, inhalers, mercury thermometers, medications containing iodine and illegal drugs.

Meijer Apotheek hours vary by location, so it’s important to check before heading out.

There are likely other local options for you, which often include local law enforcement agencies and national pharmacy chains.

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