Needle disposal solution offered exclusively at Walgreens

HOUSTON — Sharps Compliance on Monday announced that Walgreens will be the exclusive retailer for the company's Complete Needle Collection & Disposal System.

"When it comes to patient care and safety, this innovative disposal alternative can help provide a convenient option for patients," stated Suzanne Hansen, Walgreens group VP pharmacy operations. "Customers often ask about what to do with these types of needles, and now our pharmacists have another option to discuss with patients."

"We estimate that there are approximately 10 million people in the United States that legally self-inject medications," stated David Tusa, president and CEO of Sharps Compliance. "Additionally, the vast majority of those needles are improperly handled and end up in our solid waste stream and landfills through regular solid waste pickup or flushing. … This system also addresses concerns regarding the exposure of family members and others to the risk of an accidental needle-stick."

Complete Needle provides an individual self-injector with a containment solution designed to protect self-injectors and their family members, and includes an optional disposal feature utilizing the U.S. Postal Service designed to protect the individual's community, solid waste workers and the environment.

Walgreens' exclusivity expires after December, Sharps reported.