Question About How To Dispose Of Left Over Enoxaparin Syringes

Answer

First and foremost, I am sorry to hear about your husband's passing. Please accept my condolences during what I'm sure is a very challenging time.

In regard to what to do with the large quantity of enoxaparin (generic Lovenox) syringes, you have a couple of options:

• Take them to a drug drop-off event
• Use a sharps container and dispose of them
• Consider donating to a medication donation program if available

Drug Drop-Off

Many communities host drug take-back events where you can safely dispose of unused medications. The DEA has a section of their website where you can search for local events (Take Back Day (dea.gov)).

Additionally, some communities have drop-off/disposal locations on a permanent basis. I recommend checking with your local pharmacy, hospital, or government website for information specific to your area.

Throw Away

Even though enoxaparin has needles, these can still often be disposed of safely on your own (depending on your local laws).

Since the injections come in syringes, it's important to dispose of them safely to prevent accidental needle sticks.

You can place the syringes in a sharps container or a sturdy, puncture-proof container like a laundry detergent bottle. Once full, seal the container and follow your local guidelines for disposing of sharps waste.

In some areas, they can simply be thrown away in your garbage, while in others, they need to go to specific disposal locations. Some pharmacies and hospitals may also accept sharps containers for disposal. Again, check your local laws about disposing of 'sharps'.

Consider Donation

Some states have Prescription Drug Repository Programs that accept donations of unused medications for redistribution to individuals in need.

I recommend checking the State Prescription Drug Repository Program website to see if there are programs in your state (State Prescription Drug Repository Programs (ncsl.org)).

Additionally, there is an organization known as SIRUM (Supporting Initiatives to Redistribute Unused Medicine) which specializes in assisting with drug donations and national drug donation laws. Your drug may be eligible for donation so I highly recommend checking out their website as well (About Us - SIRUM - Saving Medicine : Saving Lives).

Not all drugs can be donated, but it is worth looking into.

Final Words

I hope you found this answer helpful. Thanks for reaching out!