Drug Disposal Program

Banner Health offers a safe, convenient way to dispose of prescription drugs that are no longer needed or expired. Our drug disposal program helps protect your health, your family and the environment. 

No matter your reason for disposing, you can find a drug disposal program at a Banner Family Pharmacy near you

What is the drug disposal program?

 If you’ve ever wondered what to do with expired or unused medications, Banner Family Pharmacy makes it easy. Our Drug Disposal Program offers a safe and responsible way to discard medications. 

Simply bring your prescription drugs to one of our designated Banner Pharmacy locations and use the MedSafe container for disposal. 

Why you shouldn’t take expired medications

Using expired medication can be dangerous. Over time, medicines can lose effectiveness or change in chemical composition. Some can even become harmful. 

  • Reduced effectiveness: Expired antibiotics may fail to treat infections, leading to worsening illness or antibiotic resistance. 
  • Bacterial growth: Certain medications can grow bacteria after expiration. 
  • Accidental ingestion: Outdated drugs left in medicine cabinets can be mistaken for current prescriptions, putting children, older adults or pets at risk. 
  • Potential misuse: Unused medications are a common source of diversion or abuse. 

How to safely dispose of medications 

When using a MedSafe drug disposal bin, please follow these simple steps: 

  • Leave medications in their original containers or place them in clear bags. 
  • Drop them into the MedSafe disposal slot during regular pharmacy hours. 
  • Accepted items include pills, ointments, creams, powders, nebulizer solutions and liquid medications under 4 ounces. 

Do not place needles, inhalers, aerosols or other medical supplies in the MedSafe bin. 

If you don’t have access to a Banner Family Pharmacy location, some prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be disposed of safely at home. The FDA’s flush list provides guidance on which medications can be flushed, while others can be sealed and placed in household trash.  

Locating a drug disposal bin

Our Pharmacy Drug Disposal Program is available at the following Banner Pharmacy Locations. Find the one nearest you today.

East Valley

Phoenix & West Valley

Tucson & Casa Grande

Colorado

For other community locations near you, visit the Drug Enforcement Administration website.

Banner’s Pharmacy services are committed to providing patients with the easiest and most convenient pharmacy experience possible. We’re here for all of your medication needs.

Find a Banner Family Pharmacy Near You