Medication Disposal

Proper medication disposal is important as it reduces the chance of misuse of addictive medication, such as opioids (painkillers).  By eliminating unwanted medication from your home, you are helping to keep your family and our community safe.  The Lowell Health Department and City of Lowell offer several options for safe disposal.

Services

• 24-Hour Drop-off Kiosk: The Lowell Police Department offers a 24-Hour Drop-off Kiosk for Lowell residents to dispose of medications (pill form only)
• Unwanted Medication and Sharps Disposal Day: The Lowell Health Department hosts disposal days four times per year for residents.
• Health Education: Lowell Health Department staff can provide education on the dangers of prescription drug misuse and share proper medication disposal techniques.
• Find additional options for medication disposal.

Prevention Tips

Put medications away

• Place medications in a locked drawer, pouch, cabinet, or safe
• Keep count of the pills in each bottle
• Ask the parents of your child’s friends to safeguard their medications as well

Dispose of Medications

• If you are no longer using a medication, find a local disposal site or event in order to properly and safely dispose of your medications

Go one step further

• Talk with your doctor about alternative pain management options
• Ask your pharmacist about the Partial-Fill Law which allows you to request a lower opioid prescription count