Each year during this time, Purchase typically hosts a medication take back day call Plants for Pills. We hand out colorful, spring inspired house plants in exchange for students properly disposing of their unused medications in our Medication Return Box (located in Health Services) or using a Deterra Medication Deactivation bag. Given our shelter in place order, Wellness wants to offer information and alternatives for students who need to properly dispose of medications.
Why proper disposal of medications?
Medications that are disposed of improperly become susceptible to diversion or misuse. This increases the likelihood of accidental ingestion or overdose. Additionally, throwing medications in the trash or flushing them down the toilet can contaminate ground water causing many environmental concerns. What about mixing them with kitty litter or coffee grounds? That does not deactivate the medication and still poses the same risks.
How to properly dispose of medication?
Medication that is unused or expired should be disposed of in an approved medication return box , or, should be placed in a medication destruction bag such as a Deterra Bag. Deterra Bags can be purchased online by searching “Deterra Drug Deactivation System.” If you need help to find a Deterra Bag, please contact the Wellness Center.
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