Martinsburg Gets Drug Drop-Off Box

The Rite Aid Pharmacy KidCents Foundation has partnered with the Martinsburg Police Department to provide a safe and secure location to dispose of unwanted medications by donating a prescription drug drop-off box which is located inside the lobby of the police department at 109 S. Mulberry St.

Community members are welcome to drop off unwanted medications during regular business hours between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. No appointment is necessary, and all drop offs will be anonymous. Just place the unwanted medications in the box and leave.

Chief of Police Kerry L. Hoover said the department suggests that all prescribed medications to be disposed of be contained inside their original packaging or placed inside a small sealed container (i.e. plastic bottle) or zip-lock bag and any personal information be removed or marked out with a permanent marker.

Items that are ACCEPTABLE to be dropped off.

• Over-the-counter medications

• Prescription medications

•  Prescription patches

• Prescription ointments

• Vitamins

• Pet medicines

The following are NOT ACCEPTABLE to be dropped off.

• Hydrogen peroxide

• Compressed cylinders or aerosols (e.g., asthma inhalers)

• Iodine-containing medications

• Thermometers

• Alcohol and illegal drugs (i.e. marijuana, heroin, LSD, etc.)

• Needles (Sharps)

• Ointments, lotions or liquids

Chief Hoover said individuals should consult their pharmacist or physician's office for information regarding disposal of items located on the "not acceptable" list.

"We encourage everyone to take advantage of this drop-off location to help keep unwanted medications out of the hands of our children and teens," Chief Hoover said.