Pharmaceutical Disposal

Don't flush expired or unwanted medications down the drain! Doing so can pollute our water and unintentionally expose us, and wildlife, to chemicals in these medications. Proper disposal also helps avoid accidental poisoning of children, and prevents prescription drug diversion by teens and adults.

Instead, drop-off expired of unwanted medications at the "Big Red Med Box" located in the lobby of the Long Beach Police Department at 1 W. Chester Street.

Please keep medications in their original container.

• It is not necessary to cross out your name, address, or any other information.
• If the drug is a patch, place in a sealed plastic bag
• If drug is a liquid, wrap bottle in paper towel and place in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leakage

 
Accepted materials

• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Non-controlled drugs
• Controlled drugs (Schedule II through V only)

 
Non-Acceptable Materials

• Medical Waste (i.e. soiled bandages or dressings)
• Medical Equipment (i.e. blood pressure monitors, wrist or ankle braces)
• Mercury filled thermometers
• Inhalers
• Sharp items (i.e. needles, syringes, scalpels, lancets)