Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicine

Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications should not be disposed down the drain because wastewater treatment facilities are not designed to remove pharmaceutical compounds and they may end up in your local waterways, and may eventually be found in your drinking water.

The DEP has developed the following guidelines for individuals and households on how to properly dispose of their over-the-counter and prescription medication in a safe manner that protects the environment and public health. Doctors, pharmacies, and health care professionals are encouraged to share this information with their clientele. The DEP wishes to emphasize that these are guidelines that apply only to households and individuals and will in no way effect the legal or regulatory obligations of any other entity.

What should you do? Click here for what to do with your excess, expired, or unwanted prescription and over-the-counter medication.

 Click here for collection sites in Bergen County.  Click here for BCUA collection events.