Sustaining the Proper Disposal of Unused Medicines

Viatris supports the proper disposal of unused medicines. Over a decade ago, cities, counties, and states began pursuing legislation to create drug-takeback programs for consumers. These programs were funded solely by pharmaceutical manufacturers, rather than by all the players in the medicine value chain. As these programs expand, the financial burden on generic manufacturers is increasing and threatens our ability to continue providing access to high-quality, lower-cost medicines.

Viatris opposes unnecessarily broad legislation mandating manufacturer-funded drug-takeback programs, much of which does not acknowledge the programs and recommendations already in place for the disposal of unused medicines. According to a September 2019 GAO report, 70% of Americans live within 5 miles of a DEA registered permanent collection site.

70%

Of Americans live within 5 miles of a DEA registered permanent collection site

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers guidance on “Where and How to Dispose of Unused Medicines” and a list of resources. Consumers can also utilize the National Prescription Drug Takeback Days sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). For anyone looking for kiosk sites that allow consumers to drop off unused medicines, My Old Meds provides a searchable locator with pharmacy and law enforcement sites in all 50 states.

 

Where and How to Dispose of Unused Medicines

List of resources

National Prescription Drug Takeback Days

My Old Meds