Medication Disposal
State Level
The state of Iowa is currently contracted with Sharps Compliance for several medication disposal options. These include permanent DEA-compliant controlled substance receptacles (MedSafe, 38 gallon and 18 gallon), as well as non-controlled substance collection units (TakeAway, 20 gallon).
If you are interested in signing up to be a collection site, contact Melissa Carstens, PMP Associate Administrator at the Iowa Board of Pharmacy, at 515-725-3492.
If you are interested in signing up to be a collection site, contact Melissa Carstens, PMP Associate Administrator at the Iowa Board of Pharmacy, at 515-725-3492.
Find Medication Disposal Locations:
- To find a local pharmacy or law enforcement facility that accepts controlled and non-controlled substances, click here.
- Temporary locations are also available during annual DEA Take-Back events (Spring & Fall).
Community Level
 |
 |
 |
As of July 1, 2021, Iowa pharmacies can submit electronic reimbursement claims for drug disposal products. Community pharmacies can dispense disposal packets to patients seeking to dispose of old or unused prescriptions at no charge to the patient. Pharmacies will be reimbursed $7.50 for each drug disposal fill and for providing education on the importance of prompt and proper medication disposal. The type of disposal packet can be any brand of the pharmacy's choosing.
Visit our FAQ webpage for details on the disposal program, or contact the Board of Pharmacy at 515-725-3492.
For information on how to properly dispose of needles, lancets, etc., please reference this document.
