New year-round medication disposal options highlighted as county offers additional take-back event

Published April 17, 2024

As Placer County prepares to host another free medication take-back event on April 27, local agencies are also encouraging residents to take advantage of permanent drop boxes and new mail-in options that offer a safe, free way to dispose of medication year-round.

Permanent drop boxes: There are 30 free, permanent drop box sites across Placer County, many at local pharmacies. Use this searchable database to find a location near you.

Mail-in disposal: There are free mail-in options for both medication and sharps/lancets. For either, complete the online form or call (844) 4-TAKE-BACK to request a pre-paid, pre-addressed mail-back package. Instructions are provided with all mail-back services.

Keeping unused or expired medications around the house poses risks of accidental poisoning or addiction, and flushing or throwing away medication can harm the environment. Many of these new, safe disposal options are a result of Senate Bill 212, which required manufacturers of pharmaceutical drugs and medical sharps to fund take-back programs for safe and secure collection and disposal of their products.

Watch a new public service announcement promoting year-round disposal options:

(View Spanish version)

Currently, as community partners across Placer promote these new, free services, they'll continue to hold biannual take-back events as well, with the next event taking place on Sat., April 27 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Bring medications in their original containers - containers will be incinerated. Click here for locations in West Placer, and here for locations in the Tahoe Truckee area.

Local law enforcement in collaboration with youth organizations, utilities, public health entities and local schools, will partner at locations across the county to accept prescription and over-the-counter drugs, veterinary medications and vaping devices (batteries removed).

During last fall's takeback event, 3,689 pounds of medication were dropped off, with over 100,000 pounds collected within Placer County at these events since 2010 - helping keep our kids and environment safer. Those attending take-back events should adhere to guidelines around acceptable materials included in the links above.

"Everyone can help keep potentially dangerous prescription drugs out of the hands of teens, young children and even seniors who might misuse them or make mistakes," said Christina Ivazes, a Health and Human Services program coordinator. "Even if you can't attend a take-back event, remember that these more permanent disposal options are free and easy to use."

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