Properly disposing of medicines helps prevent misuse, accidental poisoning, and harm to the environment. Follow the steps below to reduce waste and safely dispose of medications.

Why Safe Disposal Matters

• Unused medicines can be misused or abused, especially by teens.
• Accidental poisonings can happen if medicines are left in the home.
• Flushing or throwing medicines in the trash can pollute water and harm wildlife.

Reduce Medication Waste

• Take medicines exactly as prescribed.
• Finish all antibiotics unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
• Ask your doctor for a small amount when trying a new medication.
• Only buy what you can use before the expiration date.
• Store medicines in a secure place, away from children and pets.

Safe Disposal Options

The best way to dispose of medicines is to use a drop-off location. Carver County participates in the “Take It To The Box” program.

This program supports safe use, storage, and disposal of medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

How to Use a Drop Box

• Keep medication in its original container.
• Remove or cover your name and personal information.
• Leave the medication name on the label.
• Place items directly into the drop box.

Accepted Items

• Prescription medicines, including controlled substances
• Unused epi-pens and other autoinjectors 
• Over-the-counter medicines
• Vitamins and supplements
• Pet medications

Items Not Accepted

• Needles, sharps, or syringes
• Medical waste from clinics, pharmacies, or businesses
• Medications from veterinary clinics
• Vaping devices or e-cigarettes

Important: Vaping Devices

DO NOT place vaping devices, e-cigarettes, etc. in the disposal box. These devices are accepted at the Carver County Environmental Center in Chaska.

Carver County Drop-Off Locations

Chanhassen City Hall

7700 Market Blvd
Chanhassen, MN 55317
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM

Waconia City Hall

201 Vine Street S
Waconia, MN 55387
Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Carver County Sheriff’s Office Lobby

606 East 4th Street
Chaska, MN 55318
Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Additional Tips

• Do not flush medicines unless the label or your pharmacist says it is safe.
• Keep medicines in a secure location until you can dispose of them.
• Check your home regularly for expired or unused medications.