Why are unused prescription and over-the-counter medications a concern?

The problem is two-fold:

1) Studies have shown that pharmaceuticals and over the counter drugs are present in our nation's waterbodies and certain drugs may cause ecological harm. Outdated or unusable drugs that are disposed of by flushing or pouring down a sink, enter the environment because wastewater treatment facilities are not designed to remove them;

2) Storing unused or outdated prescriptions creates an opportunity for illicit use.

Do Not Flush Prescription Drugs Down the Toilet.  Prescription and over the counter medications should not be flushed down the toilet, poured down a sink or placed in the trash. Instead, take prescription and over-the-counter medication to select law enforcement drop-off locations in Dakota County (listed below) to safely and anonymously dispose of them.

Medication Drop-Off Stations

Starting in January, residents can drop off expired or unwanted medicine for free at the Burnsville Police Station (100 Civic Center Pkwy), the West St. Paul Police Station (1616 Humboldt Ave), and the Hasting Sheriff's Office (1580 Hwy 55).  The drop-off locations are open 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week.

Medicines accepted:

Household medications are accepted in any form including prescription, over-the counter and pet medicines. Examples include:

Not accepted:

• NO needles, syringes or fever thermometers. Bring these items to The Recycling Zone, 3365 Hwy 149 in Eagan for free, environmentally - safe disposal.
• NO medicines from businesses, including health care facilities, long-term care facilities, pharmacies, doctor’s offices or veterinary clinics. 

Preparation guidelines:

• Drop off is safe and anonymous. No ID is required and no questions will be asked.
• Keep medicines in their original container and place them in a sealed, clear plastic bag (pills can remain in their blister packs).
• Use a marker to cross out any names on medicine containers.
• Place medicine that is no longer in its original container in a clear plastic bag and write the name of the medicine on the bag.

For more information and FAQs, visit the Dakota County Sheriff's Office Prescription Drug Drop-Off page.