Prescription Drug Return/Reuse/Recycling Programs

Programs authorized by some state legislation that provide for unused prescription drugs to be donated and re-dispensed to eligible patients who have a valid prescription in their own name. While details of the laws vary by jurisdiction, most permit the return of packaged and unexpired prescription drugs from state programs, nursing homes and other medical facilities and some allow donations by individuals or their families. Not all states have a return and reuse program. All pharmaceuticals must be checked by a pharmacist prior to being redispensed, must not be expired at the time of receipt and must be unopened and in sealed, tamper-evident packaging. Liability protection for both donors and recipients usually is assured.