'More convenient:' Meijer launches Consumer Drug Take-Back Program with kiosks in all stores

MILWAUKEE -- If you are looking to get a head start on spring cleaning, you may want to start with your medicine cabinet. Meijer is launching its new Consumer Drug Take-Back Program by installing secure in-store kiosks designed to help customers safely and properly dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs at no cost.

Meijer drug take-back kiosk

Steve Talbert

"Meijer pharmacists get asked all the time what to do with extra medications and medications they don't need anymore," said Steve Talbert, Meijer store director.

Customers can find the easily identifiable kiosks in the pharmacy area in all 241 Meijer supercenters across the Midwest. They are always available during regular business hours.

"We have a lot of people come through our doors every day. It's more convenient," Talbert said.

Meijer drug take-back kiosk

Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling

Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling told FOX6 News the program is a step toward keeping prescription drugs off the streets.

"If you have something in your medicine cabinets that you're no longer using -- from a recent back surgery, knee surgery -- those are great drop-off points to make certain they end up in the right hands," Schmaling said.

Meijer is the first retailer to install kiosks in all of its stores. Again, there is not cost to use them.

Meijer pharmacists work in partnership with InMar Rx Returns to properly document, transport and dispose of medications on a regular basis. The Meijer Drug Take-Back Program complies the rules and safety guidelines established by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and HIPAA privacy laws.