Meijer debuts drug disposal program

Meijer has a new program to help consumers know exactly what to do with their leftover drugs.

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based company announced that it is launching its new Consumer Drug Take-Back Program by installing secure in-store kiosks designed to help customers safely and properly dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs at no cost. Meijer pharmacists work in partnership with InMar Rx Returns to properly document, transport and dispose of medications on a regular basis.

"Meijer is thrilled to be one of the first in our industry to provide a secure and convenient prescription drug take-back program at all stores in the communities we serve," said Jason Beauch, vice president of Meijer Pharmacy. "The Meijer Drug Take-Back Program allows our customers to remove the risk of an unforeseen accident occurring with expired or unused medications, while enabling them to properly dispose prescription drugs and reducing the possibility of creating a public health hazard."

According to the DEA's 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.2 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that most abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

Customers will be able to easily find the in-store kiosks in the pharmacy area in all 241 Meijer supercenters across the Midwest, according to the company.