TakeAway Environmental Return System™ FAQs

FAQs for Patients

Q: How does TakeAway Environmental Return System work?
A: It's easy. Simply place your unused medications into the TakeAway Environmental Return System solution and either place it in the U. S. Mail (USPS TakeAway Environmental Return System envelope) or in the United Parcel Service "UPS" system for UPS solutions (drop off at any of the thousands of UPS stores or hand it to your UPS carrier) The return shipping cost is pre-paid. The TakeAway Environmental Return System Drop-Off Box or envelope is then transported to the Sharps treatment facility where it processed by a law enforcement official.

Q: What types of medications can I send?
A: Unused medications to include: non-controlled drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.
CONTROLLED PRESCRIPTIONS (DRUGS) ARE NOT ACCEPTED.

Q: Should I take the drugs out of their containers?
A: The solution should be returned in their original containers–the returned package remains unopened and is processed by law enforcement officials. The law enforcement official then witnesses and assures destruction.

Q: Can I send liquids or gels in the envelope?
A: Yes. The solution offerings treat pills, capsules, gels, patches, liquids, ointments, inhalants, etc. Liquids must be wrapped in a paper towel or other absorbent and placed in a sealed plastic bag (e.g. a zip-lock bag) before being placed inside the envelope or box. No more than four (4) ounces of liquids can be included in the envelope.

Q: What happens to the drugs?
A: Once your package arrives at the treatment facility, we scan and secure it, then law enforcement supervises its processing as required by all applicable laws and regulations.

FAQs for Providers

Q: Help! My patients have drugs they want to safely get rid of, but I don't want to handle the medications. What can I do?
A: Collect the meds onsite with the 10-Gallon, 20-Gallon, or 40-Gallon TakeAway Environmental Return System.

Q: I'm a DEA registrant. Can I send medications?
A:TakeAway Environmental Return System is for unused patient medications only.