Unwanted and unused prescription medications are a problem; they can pose health risks as a result of accidental poisonings or intentional misuse, as well as environmental risks if they make their way into the environment.

Removing these medications from the home eliminates the possibility of them getting into the wrong hands, thereby reducing the risks of accidental poisonings and prescription drug abuse. Also, taking the time to dispose of medications through the public collection network means that unwanted medications won’t end up down the drain. Septic systems and even the wastewater treatment system (sewer) are not designed to, nor are they capable of, removing all medications from treated wastewater. Levels of some medications are virtually unchanged after treatment, meaning that these drugs enter the environment through discharges or land application (biosolids). Evidence is mounting that indicates that medications in our waterways are affecting aquatic organisms.

To make disposing of these medications easy and convenient for county residents, Thurston County Public Health & Social Services in cooperation with the Washington State Department of Ecology, the Thurston County Sheriff’s office, and local police departments have teamed up to provide a number of convenient drop-off locations for used medications.

Please note: none of the locations listed accept sharps (needles), thermometers, bloody or infectious wastes, or wastes from medical businesses. If you use sharps, learn how to dispose of them safely.

Also, please keep in mind that the drop boxes are designed for collection of prescription medications only. Please take items like shampoos, lotions, vitamins and over the counter medications to HazoHouse for disposal.

The following sites accept prescription medications, including controlled substances*, prescription samples, pet medications, medicated ointments or lotions, inhalers and liquid medications in leak proof containers.

Please note: Group Health Cooperative no longer accepts unwanted medications.

Last Resort

If you have additional questions, please call the Solid & Hazardous Waste hotline at 360-867-2664.

*Controlled substances are regulated by state and federal laws designed to prevent addiction, abuse, physical and mental harm, and illegal trafficking thereof. Such drugs may be illegal for sale or use, with the exception of those dispensed under a physician's prescription for use only by the intended person.