Safe Disposal of
Used or Expired EpiPens

heavy plastic container for safe disposal of epipens
a purchased sharps container for safe disposal of epipens

EpiPens are life-saving devices for people with severe allergies, but they don’t last forever and need to be disposed of properly when they are used or expired. Throwing them away in the trash is not safe, as they are classified as medical waste under U.S. regulations. So what is safe Epipen disposal?

Improper disposal of EpiPens can cause serious health, environmental and safety hazards. Used sharps, including EpiPens, can spread bloodborne diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C if someone gets pricked by a needle. Additionally, improperly disposed of EpiPens can injure sanitation workers, family members, or children or pets who encounter them outdoors without proper EpiPen disposal.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), EpiPens and other epinephrine auto-injectors are classified as P-listed acute hazardous waste. They contain regulated substances (epinephrine) and must be disposed of in a specific way to minimize risks to people and the environment.

Here’s a guide for safe Epipen disposal of used or expired EpiPens:

  1. Store Safely Immediately After Use: Place the used EpiPen back into its protective casing to prevent accidental needle sticks.
  2. Choose an Appropriate Sharps Container: Use a sharps container that is thick, leakproof, and puncture-resistant. You can use a specifically designed sharps container, or a sturdy plastic container like a laundry detergent bottle marked with HDPE 2. Do not use thin plastic containers that could be punctured by the needle.
  3. Prepare the Sharps Container for Disposal: When the container is almost full, add a bleach solution (one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water) to neutralize the contents. Carefully drain the liquid down the sink, seal the container tightly, and secure it with duct tape. Label the container with “SHARPS: Do Not Recycle” before the final steps of Epipen disposal.
  4. Locate a Disposal Site: There are several options for sharps disposal, including mail-back programs, healthcare facilities, designated drug take-back facilities, and sharps disposal sites operated by local sanitation departments. You can use Google Maps to search for “medication disposal near me” to find nearby locations.

Remember, disposal laws vary by state. Some states, like California, require sharps to be taken to a designated disposal site, while others allow disposal in a sealed container with your regular trash. It is important to check with your state department of health or local sanitation department to find out the specific regulations in your area.

By following these safe disposal practices, you can help protect your family, community, and the environment from the hazards of improperly disposed of medical waste.