How to Dispose of Used Insulin Syringes and Lancets At Home

In 2004, The Environmental Protection Agency issued new recommendations for the disposal of syringes and lancets. Until then, most insulin users were advised to just throw their used sharps and lancets in the trash. The EPA guidelines now advise that needles and sharps should not be put in the trash, since they can injure waster workers or pose a health risk by transmitting diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

Instructions

1. Contact your municipality, local health department or sanitation department to find out the approved method of disposal for the city or town where you live.

2. Talk to your pharmacist or health care provider about collection sites. They may be located at hospitals, medical offices, pharmacies, or other areas in your community. If there is no collection site in your area, you can use a mail-back program. Ask your health care provider or search online for programs.

3. Call the North American Syringe Exchange Network at 253-272-4857 to learn more about exchanging used needles for new needles.

4. Find out about local disposal programs by contacting the Coalition for Safe Community Needle Disposal at 1-800-643-1643.

5. Purchase a sharps destruction device. These devices bend, clip or melt the sharp, making it safe for regular trash disposal. To find one, check with your pharmacist or Internet drug stores and medical supply companies.

Resources

• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• North American Syringe Exchange Network