Franciscan Health Mooresville Introduces New Option For Disposing Of Unused Prescription Medication

MOORESVILLE, Indiana - Franciscan Health Mooresville is partnering with Sharps Compliance, Inc. to combat the growing epidemic of prescription drug misuse by providing solutions to safely dispose of expired, unwanted and unused medications, including opioid painkillers.

A MedSafe® drug collection and disposal receptacle is now located at the main hospital entrance of Franciscan Health Mooresville for the safe and anonymous disposal of unused or expired medicines and controlled substances. 

Most Americans recognize that prescription drug misuse is a growing problem and one that flourishes in all communities.

"We often receive questions from patients and visitors asking how they can safely get rid of their unused medications," said Trish Weber, chief operating officer for Franciscan Health Mooresville and Carmel. "We're happy to provide a safe and convenient solution at Franciscan Health in which to dispose of unused medications, thus removing them from one's home and harm's way."

Visitors can bring their unused medications to the MedSafe receptacle, which is located directly inside the main hospital entrance, next to the gift shop. The MedSafe is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week and is a specially designed receptacle for a safe, cost-effective, and convenient way to dispose of potentially dangerous drugs.

Medications accepted are: prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and liquid medication bottles less than 4 oz. in a Ziplock bag. The MedSafe cannot accept: illegal drugs, needles/syringes, medical devices or batteries, aerosol cans or inhalers, chemicals, mercury-containing devices, radiopharmaceuticals, or liquid chemotherapy and cytotoxic drugs. 

"Safe disposal of prescription medication is a vital strategy for preventing prescription drug misuse and keeping the water supply safe," said David P. Tusa, president and chief executive officer Sharps Compliance, Inc. "We are thrilled to partner with pharmacies and healthcare organizations to provide a convenient method to dispose of unwanted medications."

The MedSafe receptacles are securely installed and can only be accessed and emptied by two employees as required by the DEA guidelines. MedSafe receptacles are located in retail pharmacies, long-term care facilities, hospitals and clinics with on-site pharmacies, law enforcement, government agencies, and narcotic treatment facilities. 

If you have additional questions about disposing of unused or expired medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to proceed. You can also call the FDA at 888-463-6332.