Don't Flush Your Meds
To prevent misuse and keep medications from entering our waterways, please dispose of unused prescription and over-the-counter medications responsibly. Flushing unused or expired medications down the sink or toilet can pollute the environment. 
Check for local disposal locations
Check these resources to find a convenient disposal option near you!
Check for local take back events
The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs.
Drug Enforcement Administration National Take Back Day. Check this site for additional information about take back events. Controlled substances are accepted.
Check Household Hazardous Waste Facilities
Several local HHW facilities also accept unused meds:
Sacramento County
North
Area Recovery Station
(916) 875-5555
Controlled substances: see
Federal Recommendations
City of Folsom
HazMat Division
(916) 355-8367 – Free pickup
available
Controlled substances: Folsom
Police Department
City of Elk Grove
Special Waste Collection Center
(916) 627-3232 – Free disposal for
Elk Grove residents
Controlled substances: Elk Grove Police Department
City of Sacramento
The City of Sacramento does not accept pharmaceuticals as a part
of their Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Program. However, as a
resident of Sacramento County, you are eligible to dispose of
your pharmaceuticals and other HHW at a County
Facility. To review the list of acceptable materials at the
City of Sacramento facility, visit the
City of Sacramento’s HHW Program website.
City of Citrus Heights
The City of Citrus Heights is currently serviced by Republic
Services. Unfortunately, Republic Services does not accept
pharmaceuticals as a part of their Household Hazardous Waste
(HHW) Program. Citrus Heights residents are advised to follow the
Federal Recommendations. To get help with identifying
household hazardous waste and to find out ways to handle it,
visit the
Republic Services HHW Program website. To check the dates of
HHW events, visit the
City of Citrus Heights Waste Management and Recycling
website.
Yolo County
Yolo County
Landfill
Free pickup available for seniors and disabled:
– West Sacramento: (916) 617-4590
– Yolo County: (530) 666-8856
Controlled substances: Local police station
Check with your local pharmacy for mail-back options
The next time you visit your local pharmacy, ask the pharmacist if they have mail-back envelopes for your unused or expired medications.
Need more information?
We're here to help!
Hotline: (916) 875-9393
