A program that will allow Iowans to properly dispose of old or unneeded prescription drugs begins this month. IowaTakeAway is a cooperative effort between the Iowa Pharmacy Association and Houston-based Sharps Compliance Corporation, which will provide containers for residents to properly dispose of unwanted or expired prescription medication.

Don Versluys with Crown Pharmacy in Pella says his pharmacy is one of over 300 in the state participating in the program and says it will provide a much safer way to dispose of medications than flushing them down the toilet, which had been recommended in the past and can be harmful to the environment. Versluys says they will accept most medications in pill or capsule form, with the exception of narcotics or controlled substances.

Greg Clodfelter, assistant manager of the Knoxville Hy-Vee Pharmacy, says they’re accepting any tablets, ointments, and liquids under 4 ounces, among other items for the program. However, he says items that will not be accepted also include needles or syringes. Clodfelter says those with questions on what’s accepted can call 641-842-4717 or stop by the pharmacy.

Programs to properly dispose of prescription medications were created after it was discovered that drugs being dumped down drains or flushed down toilets were finding their way into the groundwater of some communities.