Unwanted Household Pharmaceuticals Takeback Program
The Unwanted Household Pharmaceuticals Takeback Program provides a safe and responsible way for Tennessee residents to dispose of unwanted or unused pharmaceuticals.
Pharmaceutical drop-off locations offer a safe, responsible way to dispose of unwanted or unused medications, helping prevent misuse, protect children, and safeguard the environment. Flushing or tossing medications can pollute soil and water, as landfills and wastewater systems aren’t equipped to fully filter out pharmaceutical chemicals.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation’s Office of Sustainable Practices manages this program in partnership with law enforcement, pharmacies, universities, and other state agencies to expand access to secure drop-off sites. Partners include the U.S. Department of Justice - Drug Enforcement Agency, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation - Dangerous Drugs Taskforce, Tennessee Department of Health, Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Tennessee Department of Military, and Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
Since 2011, the program has collected 890,558 pounds of medications and placed 390 collection bins across Tennessee:
- 281 at police stations
- 10 at public universities
- 99 at pharmacies
Find a Drop-Off Location
Click on the map below to find a takeback location near you.
Accepted Items
- Liquid medications (in leak-proof containers)
- Medicated ointment, lotions, or drops
- Pills in any packaging (glass bottles, plastic containers, plastic bags, etc.)
- Over-the-counter medications, Liquid medications (must be in leak-proof containers)
- Pet medications
Not Accepted Items
- Blood sugar equipment
- Sharps/needles
- Thermometers
- IV bags
- Bloody or infectious waste
- Personal care products (shampoo, lotions, etc.)
- Illegal drugs & narcotics (police will accept these items if placed in the container)
- E-Cigarettes and Vapes: Learn how to dispose of E-Cigarettes and Vape Pens in Tennessee
Many items not accepted by the Unwanted Household Pharmaceuticals Takeback Program are accepted through the Household Hazardous Waste Program at their permanent or mobile collection sites throughout Tennessee. View the list of items accepted through the Household Hazardous Waste Program.
Request a Takeback Box
Law Enforcement and Public Universities
Interested in hosting a permanent takeback box? Submit a request to get started.
Pharmacies
To host a permanent takeback box, pharmacies must first hold a valid DEA registration as a retail pharmacy. They can then apply to modify their registration to become an authorized collector. Once approved, the pharmacy can set up secure collection receptacles or offer mail-back programs through a third-party reverse distributor for safe disposal of unused or expired medications. This process ensures compliance with DEA regulations and helps prevent drug misuse and diversion.
