NEVER FLUSH MEDICATIONS DOWN THE TOILET.

They adversely affect aquatic life and have shown up in drinking water.

There are three medication take-back locations on Bainbridge:
> Rite Aid Pharmacy, 301 High School Rd NE – Open during pharmacy hours
> Safeway Pharmacy, 253 High School Rd NE – Open during pharmacy hours
> Bainbridge Island Police Station, 625 Winslow Way E – During open hours, 8am-4pm, Monday-Friday. Keep pills in bottles and deposit in the dropbox in the lobby.
Check here for other Kitsap County dropbox locations.

To find out how to recycle empty pill bottles, go here.

What medications are accepted?

Most prescription and over-the-counter medicines can be returned, but medical sharps (needles, etc.) will not be accepted. Drugs sold in any form (solids, liquids, patches) and used by individuals (not businesses) are accepted, including:

  • Prescription and non-prescription drugs
  • Brand name and generic drugs, and
  • Drugs for veterinary use
  • Pre-filled auto-injectables (such as EpiPens) are accepted via mail-back envelope

Medicines NOT accepted – and how to dispose of

  • Medical sharps (needles, syringes) and used (empty) auto injectables (such as EpiPens) – Bainbridge Disposal Transfer Station booth, seal safely
  • Covid tests (go here for extended expiration dates of certain home Covid tests) – trash
  • Medical devices
  • Vitamins or supplements – trash
  • Illicit drugs
  • Batteries – Bainbridge Disposal Transfer Station battery (buckets) section
  • Mercury-containing thermometers – Household Hazardous Waste collection facility in Bremerton
  • Herbal-based remedies and homeopathic drugs, products or remedies – trash
  • Cosmetics, shampoos, sunscreens, toothpaste, lip balm, antiperspirants or other personal care products – trash
  • Pet pesticide products contained in pet collars, powders, shampoos, topical applications, or other forms – HHW facility in Bremerton

In late 2017, the Kitsap Public Health Board approved an ordinance establishing secure medicine return regulations throughout the county, including on Bainbridge.  It is free for all county residents.  Those who are homebound may dispose of unused medicine by mail at no cost.  Go here for all the details.

For a deeper dive into the negative ramifications of flushing drugs, please see here. (Do not use this link for what meds to turn in or where to turn in.)

Last updated 7/29/23