If you have any unused prescriptions around the house, it’s important to get rid of them safely.
Take your drugs to a prescription drug disposal site
The best thing to do is bring them to a drug disposal box or take-back event. Visit the BHDDH website to learn about where you can dispose of your medications. You can also safely dispose of needles at ENCORE Needle Exchange (located at 557 Broad Street, Providence, RI, 02907 – phone: 401-781-0665). Learn more about how to get rid of medicines or medical waste.
Most prescription painkillers are called controlled substances because they can be addictive under some circumstances — especially if they’re not used correctly. To get rid of prescription painkillers, make sure the drug disposal location you’re visiting will accept controlled substances.
Use a lock bag to store your drugs
The Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH) and the Rhode Island Regional Coalitions are providing free lock bags. Protect children by using lock bags to safely store your drugs. We all have a role in preventing misuse of medicines. It’s important to keep *all* medicines, both prescription and over-the-counter, in a safe place.
Share these messages from the Over-the-Counter Doesn’t Mean On-the-Counter campaign by downloading the printable flyers (English | Spanish) and distributing within your networks.
Lock bags can help keep your family safer. Get one for free.
More Resources
Help a Loved One
Addiction can affect anyone – as well as their friends and family. It can also be difficult to know what to do as a parent.
Prevent Youth Poisonings
No matter what drugs are in your house, lock them up, store them out of reach, and keep kids safer.