Safe Disposal of Hypodermic Needles & Sharps

Sharps are devices used to puncture the skin and/or deliver medication via a needle or syringe. It is essential that you safely dispose of used needles. 

It is never a good idea to flush loose needles or any other sharps down the toilet or put them in the regular home or public trash cans.

It is important to remember that: 

• Needles should be placed in an approved container.
• It is the responsibility of the prescribing physician to inform you of where and how to dispose of needles safely. 
• A thick heavy-duty plastic container with a lid is acceptable instead of an approved container. 

Ideally, you should use one specially designed and approved sharps disposal container.  These containers are available to purchase online and in many local stores. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your needs. These containers should be kept safely in your home, preferably in a locked location.  

When the container is full, you must dispose of it properly and follow FDA guidelines.  

Click here to find a safe needle disposal location near you.