Stony Brook University And The Medical Center Spearhead Environmental Initiative To Be Modeled By Others
Collection and Disposal Protect Water Resources From Unwanted Medicines
STONY BROOK, N.Y., April 6, 2009 — On Saturday, April 18, 2009, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook University Medical Center, and the surrounding community are sponsoring a special pharmaceutical recycling event where residents can safely dispose of unwanted/expired medicines. This event takes place from 10 am – 3 pm, at the Setauket Fire Department on Nicholls Road, Setauket, N.Y.
According to an investigation in 2008 by the Associated Press, pharmaceuticals can be found in the drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans. The study also indicated that antibiotics, mood stabilizers, and sex hormones are among the drugs found in the drinking water supplies of at least 24 major metropolitan areas in the U.S.
Pharmacists will be present to identify medications and answer any questions from citizens concerning prescriptions or over the counter medicines. Participants are urged to bring all medicines in their original containers.
Medicines accepted for disposal will include:
Prescription medications (controlled and uncontrolled)
all over-the-counter medications
Medication samples
Pet Medications
Vitamins and supplements
Medicated ointments, lotions, creams, and oils
Inhalers
Liquid medication
Homeopathic Remedies
Suppositories
Medicines not accepted include:
Sharps (e.g. needles and Syringes)
Thermometers
IV bags
Bloody or infectious waste
Personal care products (e.g. shampoo, toothpaste, soap)
Hydrogen Peroxide
Aerosol cans
Pharmaceutical waste not generated by households (e.g., clinics, pharmacies, hospitals, etc.)
Radioactive pharmaceuticals
Vaccines
For more information, please call Larissa Graham at 631-632-9216
