BMH Installs Drug Take-Back Box

If you have unwanted, unused, or expired prescription drugs, you no longer have to wait for drug take-back events. Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (BMH) recently installed a MedDrop drug take-back box.

Look for the blue box

The MedDrop box is located in the entryway of the main entrance of the hospital. The blue box has a secure drawer to add the drugs that go into a locked safe. Anyone can drop unwanted drugs. You do not have to be a patient at the hospital.

“The ability to easily dispose of unused and unneeded medication helps strengthen the safety and well-being of our community,” noted Stephen Kapral, R.Ph., director of Pharmacy for BMH.

Prescription and OTC drugs only

Items not allowed include illegal drugs, syringes, needles, liquids over four ounces, aerosol spray cans, trash, medical devices, chemical liquids, or other hazardous materials.

“The secure box has two locks that open by different keys held by different people to help eliminate any misuse of the drugs when the box is emptied,” Kapral explained.

Excess prescription and over-the-counter drugs can pose a serious risk in one’s home. The MedDrop box is a secure metal drop box that will provide a safe way to properly dispose of these medications. This helps protect the environment and water supply. It also reduces the risk of accidental overdose, intentional misuse, or the development of addictions.

 

Stephen Kapral, R.Ph., Director of Pharmacy for BMH, demonstrates how MedDrop, a medication disposal unit, works as it is located at the front entrance of the hospital.