Walgreens collects more than 15,000 lbs. of unused, expired medications

HOUSTON — Walgreens’ Safe Medication Disposal Program, launched in September 2010 in partnership with Sharps Compliance, has collected more than 15,000 lbs. of unused or expired medications, Walgreens announced Monday.

“We estimate that more than 200 million lbs. of unused dispensed medications are disposed of improperly each year,” Sharps Compliance president and CEO David Tusa said.

“We are encouraged that many of our patients have taken advantage of this medication disposal opportunity,” stated Richard Ashworth, Walgreens VP pharmacy operations. “In addition to the environmental benefits, it addresses a common safety concern in communities. Customers are pleased to have a solution that allows them to be environmentally responsible and keep medications out of unintended hands with convenience and ease.”

As part of the program, U.S. Postal Service-approved envelopes are available at Walgreens for $3.99 for customers to place, seal and mail prescription or over-the-counter medications they no longer use to a facility for proper treatment. Controlled substances are excluded from this program due to current regulations. Postage is included in the cost of the envelope.