October 10-14 is Operation Medicine Cabinet Cleanout. Help our community by monitoring and properly disposing of your unused or expired medications. Doing this prevents accidental poisoning or abuse by others, and protects the environment.

Operation Medicine Cabinet Cleanout is sponsored by the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board in partnership with many Fairfax County government departments and coalitions, private treatment providers and local businesses.

Bring unused or expired medications (just pills or liquids – no pressurized canisters or needles) to your local Fairfax County district police station for disposal anytime from Monday, October 10 through Friday, October 14, 2011.
Disposal is free, convenient, confidential and safe.
Visit the Health Department's "Don't Flush" page for more information about proper disposal of medications year-round.

Drop-off sites
Fair Oaks District Station
12300 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway
Fairfax, VA 22033

Franconia District Station                                            6121 Franconia Road
Alexandria, VA 22310

Mason District Station
6507 Columbia Pike
Annandale, VA 22003

McLean District Station
1437 Balls Hill Road
McLean, VA 22101

Mount Vernon District Station
2511 Parkers Lane
Alexandria, VA 22306

Reston District Station                                                  12000 Bowman Towne Drive
Reston, VA 20190

Sully District Station
4900 Stonecroft Boulevard
Chantilly, VA 20151

West Springfield District Station
6140 Rolling Road
Springfield, VA 22152

Why Do We Need to Keep Medications Safe?

Clearing out unused or expired medications prevents accidental poisoning, drug abuse, and environmental pollution. In a 2009 survey, approximately 1 in 13 Fairfax County high school students responded that they had abused prescription drugs and/or over-the-counter medications in the previous month. Nationally, prescription drug abuse is a growing problem with all ages.

To learn how to safely dispose of your expired and unused medications from home year-round, visit the Health Department’s medicine disposal Web page and watch our short video describing how to safely dispose of your medications. Also keep these safety tips in mind:

Read the material provided with all prescribed medications to know how to use them safely.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about any possible risks, especially for abuse.

Talk to your children. Let them know to never take medications without your knowledge.

Keep track of and secure your medications.