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"Project Medicine Drop," sponsored by more than 100 police departments, sheriff’s offices and State Police barracks, allows citizens to dispose of prescription drugs anonymously, no questions asked, any time of day.
“We are seeing [a] strong and growing demand from New Jersey residents who understand the potential dangers posed by unused medications, and who wish to dispose of them safely and securely,” Acting Attorney General John J. Hoffman said.
Covanta Energy, a nationwide operator of energy-from-waste and renewable energy facilities, destroys the dropped-off medications from across New Jersey at no cost to taxpayers or to the participating police departments.
Before this, most people flushed their unused prescription drugs down the toilet, threw them in the trash, or kept them in the household medicine cabinet. This contaminated the water supply, helped start and feed habits — often for children — and tempted thieves.
The medication can either be disposed of in its original container or can be removed from its container and placed in the disposal box.
Liquid products should be disposed of in its original container with the cap tightly sealed, to prevent leakage, police say.
Authorities warn that the majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
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