Under the Secure Medicine Return Regulations, drugs that meet the definition of a covered drug sold in or into King County for residential use will be collected and properly disposed by MED-Project, the stewardship organization approved to operate its plan in King County on behalf of the drug companies it represents. Drugs collected will include those for use by both human and residential pets.
Residents will be encouraged to bring leftover, expired, and unwanted medicines to secure drop-boxes located in participating pharmacies or law enforcement offices throughout the county.
Drugs meeting the definition of a covered drug
Prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines that resident
use in their homes, or in other residential setting
Medicines sold in any form, both brand name and generic
Legally-prescribed controlled substances such as OxyContin, Vicodin, Valium,
Ritalin, and stimulants.
Drugs not meeting the definition of a covered drug
Vitamins and supplements
Herbal-based remedies and homeopathic drugs, products or remedies
Cosmetics, shampoos, sunscreens, toothpaste, lip balm, antiperspirants or other
personal care products that are regulated as both cosmetics and nonprescription
drugs under the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Title 21 U.S.C. Chapter 9
Schedule 1 controlled substances
Pharmaceutical waste from businesses
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This overview provides general information. For specific requirements of the Secure Medicine Return Regulations see Board of Health Chapter 11.50.
Updated March 19, 2017