Safe Medicine Disposal

Gillette Children’s supports disposing of unused medicines in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. We can’t take back leftover drugs, but we offer information about how to dispose of leftover medicines as safely as possible.

It is important to NOT keep extra medication after you are done using them, especially opioids and controlled substances such as oxycodone or diazepam. It is recommended you dispose of unused opioids if not used for two weeks following an acute illness or surgery. 

Many counties and local law enforcement agencies participate in Take Back Days or year-round drop boxes to help residents safely dispose of unwanted medications.

This Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) website can help find a registered take back site. You can search for the nearest drop site by entering your zip code or city.

There is a public drug disposal bin located in the same building as Gillette’s St. Paul Clinic. The public main entrance to Regions Hospital, also known as the South Entrance, has a “Take-Back” medicine drop-off. This secured bin is located on the 1st floor near the south elevators. It is available year-round for drop-offs.

For more information on how to properly dispose of unused medicines at home, visit the FDA's information site.