Disposal of Controlled Prescription Drugs and Needles

Marion Animal Hospital is not able to accept used sharps such as needles and syringes, and we advise you consult with your state of residence for best disposal recommendations.  States will vary in their requirements for the safe disposal of controlled drugs and sharps such as needles to help ensure the safety of sanitation workers and the public in general.  Explore the links below to find information relevant to your state of residence on how to safely and properly dispose of needles, syringes, and controlled drugs.

Massachusetts

The state of Massachusetts provides a list of drop-off locations for every town for both prescription drugs and sharps such as needles and syringes.  Hazardous waste should not be placed in your regular trash, but instead disposed off through locations listed in the links below.

Safely Dispose of Prescription Drugs – Mass.gov site for the disposal of prescription drugs.

Find a Medical Waste Kiosk – An interactive map of locations in Massachusetts for medical waste disposal.

Proper Use and Disposal of Needles and Syringes – A PDF listing towns in Massachusetts and their available sharps disposal locations.

Rhode Island

The state of Rhode Island offers two disposal options for sharps such as needles and syringes.  The drop-off of sharps can be scheduled via an online form at www.ecodepotri.org, or by following the directions linked below sharps can also be placed directly in your trash.  Controlled prescription drugs can also be placed directly into your regular trash, or disposed of at a multitude of police stations and pharmacies.  Explore the links below for more detailed information on safe home disposal or to locate a nearby drop-off site.

Safe Disposal of Household Medical Waste – Guidelines on disposing of medical waste, sharps, and prescription drugs.

Get Rid of Medicines Safely – An interactive map of RI police stations and pharmacies accepting drop-offs.

Safe Sharps Disposal in Rhode Island – Quick guideline on disposing of sharps at home or at a drop-off location.

Eco-Depot Drop Off – Online site to request an appointment to schedule a drop-off at an eco-depot location.