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Residential RecyclingReuse & ExchangeCenters & ServicesSpecial Disposal |
Calendar Rain Barrel Workshop Sustainable Gourmet
Prescription Drug DisposalPrescription drug disposal is an idea that has come into question a great deal recently. Traditionally, people were told to dispose of their unwanted, unneeded, or expired medicines by flushing them down the toilet or tossing them in the trash. Not much thought was given to this method, until traces of pharmaceuticals were discovered in rivers and other bodies of water during the latest tests. If drugs are found in these bodies of water, then that could mean that our drinking water is contaminated with traces of antidepressants, antibiotics, and other medicines. Prescription and nonprescription drugs that are not properly disposed of easily make their way into our water supply. Pills that are flushed down the toilet or liquid medicines that are dumped down the drain can kill helpful bacteria that live in septic tanks. These drugs also can pass through sewage treatment facilities without any chemical change, and show up in clean water supplies. If they are thrown out with the trash, drugs can make their way into the groundwater. Currently, a movement is being made for safe drug disposal through pharmacies around the state. Recently, five pharmacies in McLean County have joined in on the prescription drug disposal program. Patients can bring their drugs to the locations during normal business hours, and are asked to black out their name, but leave the name of the drug visible. Controlled substances (strong painkillers like morphine, codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone), needles, syringes, and thermometers will not be accepted. The following McLean County locations are accepting prescription drugs for proper disposal:
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Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm
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