Tuesday, April 04, 2017

University Police is now providing the UNCW campus and the public an avenue to safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescriptions.

A medication disposal drop box has been set up in the university police department’s lobby and is available to UNCW faculty, staff, students and the public. The department will accept prescription and over-the-counter medication year-round, 24 hours a day, said Capt. Chris Padgett.

“The drop box is designed to be an anonymous, convenient and secure way to dispose of unused, unwanted or expired medications,” said Padgett. “The safe disposal of medications will keep substances out of our water supply and help keep drugs out of the hands of people who might abuse them.”

The installation of the drop box is also a part of the department’s ongoing commitment to providing a safe campus community, he added.

Individuals can also drop off prescription patches, prescription ointments/creams, vitamins and pet medications. Radioactive or chemotherapy medications, syringes or needles will not be accepted, with the exception of Epi-Pens.

CROSSROADS - the university’s alcohol and drug prevention and education program – and the Student Health Center are working with the department to bring awareness about the drop box.

“This is a great opportunity to educate our community, particularly students, about the importance of proper use, storage and disposal of medication,” said Katrin Wesner, director of the Student Health Center.  

The N.C. State Bureau of Investigation and Safe Kids North Carolina awarded the UPD a grant to pay for the drop box. For more information, visit the UPD’s website or call 910.962.2222.

-- Venita Jenkins

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