Operation Medicine Drop
To help stop prescription drugs from falling into the wrong hands, the SBI helps sponsor prescription drug take-back events across the state.

Safely disposing of old medications through Operation Medicine Drop events instead of flushing them down the drain prevents chemicals from ending up in the water supply.The SBI partners with Safe Kids North Carolina, the Drug Enforcement Administration and local law enforcement to collect and safely destroy prescription drugs during Operation Medicine Drop.

North Carolinians have safely disposed of approximately 80,600 pounds of pills at Operation Medicine Drop events from 2013 to 2018.

Operation Medicine Drop events typically take place statewide in the spring and fall. You can sign up to receive email notifications about events in your area. 

Because narcotics and other dangerous drugs are often received at prescription drug take-back events, these events must be overseen by law enforcement officials. Unsecured collection boxes are not permitted. However, secure collection boxes are now available year-round in some communities. Find a permanent drop box near you.