December 3, 2009

Ada County Cities Launch Drug Drop Off Programs

The cities of Boise and Meridian will soon be offering citizens new options for conveniently and safely disposing of unused and expired prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Starting Thursday, December 10, unwanted medications and old prescriptions can be dropped off at area law enforcement offices for free and safe disposal. Boise City Police, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and Garden City Police will each offer a "no questions asked" medications collection bin in the lobby of their respective headquarters.

In Meridian the program is already underway. People can drop off unused medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and pet medications, as well as liquid medications in leak-proof containers, at the Meridian Police Department any Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, excluding major holidays. The Meridian Police Department is located at 1401 E. Watertower Lane.

Citizens may also bring unwanted medications and old prescriptions to any Household Hazardous Waste Collections Site. Federal regulations prohibit any of the household hazardous waste collection sites or the Ada County Hidden Hollow Sanitary Landfill from accepting controlled substances. So, ask your pharmacist to assist you in determining if your prescription qualifies as a controlled substance.

The drug drop off programs help protect the region's water quality and reduce the potential for medication mistakes and misuse in our community.

Follow the links under Resources for more information on the programs of each community.