Medication disposal event set for April 21

Ohio University students, faculty, staff and community members are welcome to dispose of unwanted or expired medications at a medication disposal event on April 21.

At the event, there will also be take home pouches distributed for those who would rather dispose of medications at home. The pouches deactivate the medications, making them unusable and safe to dispose of. 

Disposal for either method is anonymous as medication containers and names are not collected.

This medication disposal event is hosted by the JED Campus Environmental Safety team in collaboration with the Ohio University Police Department (OUPD) to reduce misuse, overdose, poisoning or environmental harm. According to the College Prescription Drug Study done in 2022, 14.5% of student respondents said they have taken stimulants for non-medical reasons. The majority of students who reported misusing prescription drugs said they obtained the medication from a friend. According to the study, 26% percent of students said it was somewhat or very easy for them to obtain a stimulant without a prescription. 

In addition to individual health concerns, incorrect disposal of medications can lead to environmental harm. Conventional wastewater treatment facilities face limitations in effectively removing medications from our water systems. 

“We’re striving to create a campus where medications aren’t forgotten in drawers or backpacks but are safely disposed of when no longer needed,” said Senior Project Manager and Planner for JED Campus and Well-Being Hali Burleson, “We want responsible medication disposal to be a normal part of campus life.” 

Disposal locations on April 21 will be at The Den in Boyd Hall from 10 a.m.-noon and the Living Learning Center from 1-3 p.m.