Through a partnership with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, there is now a permanent prescription drug take-back bin located outside the Police Department (350 Walnut Street). This bin allows anonymous 24/7/365 collection of unwanted pill medication. Liquids, creams, and sharps are not accepted.
This program provides a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs (including dangerous opioids) are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. The Environmental Protection Agency discourages flushing unneeded prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs down the toilet or drain unless the label or accompanying patient information specifically instructs you to do so. This keeps medicines from entering our waterways and harming the environment and drinking water.