Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Waste Management Solutions Nationwide

Pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, research institutions, and all facilities handling medications generate strictly regulated pharmaceutical waste requiring expert management. From controlled substances and chemotherapy waste to expired medications and laboratory chemicals, Hazardous Waste Disposal provides compliant, secure pharmaceutical waste management services meeting EPA, DEA, and state regulations.

Call (800) 582-4833 for pharmaceutical waste disposal services or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

Understanding Pharmaceutical Hazardous Waste

Pharmaceutical waste is regulated under multiple federal and state programs including the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Controlled Substances Act, and various state-specific pharmaceutical waste regulations. Proper management requires understanding complex classification systems, segregation requirements, and disposal pathways.

Why Pharmaceutical Waste Requires Specialized Management

Pharmaceutical waste differs from general hazardous waste due to:

Dual Regulatory Oversight: EPA regulates hazardous characteristics while DEA controls scheduled substances. Many pharmaceutical wastes fall under both regulatory frameworks requiring coordinated compliance.

Public Health Protection: Improper disposal can contaminate water supplies, harm wildlife, enable drug diversion, and create public health hazards. The opioid crisis has intensified scrutiny on controlled substance disposal.

Environmental Persistence: Many pharmaceutical compounds don't break down naturally and can accumulate in ecosystems, affecting aquatic life and potentially entering the human food chain.

Security Requirements: Controlled substances require chain-of-custody documentation, witness requirements for destruction, and theft prevention measures during storage and transportation.

Complex Classification: Pharmaceuticals may be hazardous due to ignitability (alcohol-based), reactivity (certain chemotherapy agents), toxicity (heavy metals in some formulations), or listed waste status (specific EPA codes).

Pharmaceutical Waste We Handle

Hazardous Pharmaceutical Waste (RCRA-Regulated)

Chemotherapy and Antineoplastic Drugs

Chemotherapy agents are among the most hazardous pharmaceutical wastes due to their carcinogenic, mutagenic, and teratogenic properties. These cytotoxic drugs require specialized handling and disposal.

Common chemotherapy waste includes:

• IV bags containing residual chemotherapy drugs (even empty bags retain drug residue)

• Vials and ampules from drug preparation

• Syringes used for chemotherapy administration

• Administration sets (tubing, connectors, pump cassettes)

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) contaminated during handling (gowns, gloves, face shields)

• Spill cleanup materials from chemotherapy preparation or administration areas

• Expired or unused chemotherapy medications

• Compounding waste from pharmacy preparation areas

Major chemotherapy drug categories requiring specialized disposal:

• Alkylating agents (cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, carboplatin)

• Antimetabolites (methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, gemcitabine)

• Antitumor antibiotics (doxorubicin, bleomycin, mitomycin)

• Plant alkaloids and terpenoids (vincristine, vinblastine, paclitaxel, docetaxel)

• Topoisomerase inhibitors (etoposide, irinotecan, topotecan)

• Monoclonal antibodies (rituximab, trastuzumab, bevacizumab)

• Targeted therapy agents (imatinib, erlotinib, sorafenib)

Facilities generating chemotherapy waste:

• Major cancer centers: MD Anderson Cancer Center (Houston), Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (New York), Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Scottsdale, Jacksonville), Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (Boston), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center (Seattle)

• Hospital oncology departments: All major hospital systems including Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital, UCSF Medical Center

• Outpatient infusion centers: Freestanding chemotherapy clinics, physician office-based infusion suites

• Compounding pharmacies: Specialized pharmacies preparing IV chemotherapy admixtures

• Home healthcare agencies: Providing in-home chemotherapy administration services

• Veterinary oncology clinics: Animal hospitals treating cancer in pets

Special handling requirements:

• Chemotherapy waste must be segregated at point of generation in clearly marked, leak-proof containers

• Yellow chemotherapy waste containers are industry standard for visual identification

• EPA waste codes U listed wastes (specific unused commercial chemical products) and P listed (acutely hazardous)

• Some states (California, Washington, Minnesota, others) have additional chemotherapy waste requirements

• Incineration is typically required for chemotherapy waste disposal

• Documentation must track waste from generation through final destruction

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Waste

Pharmaceutical manufacturers produce hazardous waste throughout drug development, production, quality control, and packaging operations.

Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) Manufacturing Waste:

• Reaction vessel cleanouts and purge materials

• Off-specification batches not meeting quality standards

• Distillation bottoms from purification processes

• Filter cakes and spent filter media

• Crystallization mother liquors

• Solvent recovery waste streams

• Synthesis intermediates and byproducts

• Expired or degraded raw materials

Process Solvents:

• Methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, acetone (Class IC flammable liquids)

• Methylene chloride, chloroform (halogenated solvents, suspected carcinogens)

• Toluene, xylene, hexane (aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons)

• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), dimethylformamide (DMF) (dipolar aprotic solvents)

• Tetrahydrofuran (THF), diethyl ether (ether solvents with peroxide formation risk)

• Acetonitrile (used extensively in pharmaceutical synthesis and HPLC)

Quality Control Laboratory Waste:

• HPLC mobile phases and column waste

• Gas chromatography solvents and standards

• Mass spectrometry waste

• Titration reagents and standards

• pH buffers and calibration solutions

• Spectrophotometry chemicals

• Microbiological culture media (potentially infectious)

• Failed stability study samples

Equipment Cleaning Waste:

• Clean-in-place (CIP) solutions

• Steam-in-place (SIP) condensate (may contain drug residues)

• Tank and reactor cleaning solvents

• Production line changeover waste

• Equipment decommissioning materials

• Validation cleaning waste samples

Major pharmaceutical manufacturers we serve:

• Pfizer: Multiple manufacturing sites including Kalamazoo MI, Groton CT, Pearl River NY, McPherson KS

• Johnson & Johnson/Janssen: New Brunswick NJ, Titusville NJ, and sites nationwide

• Merck: Rahway NJ, West Point PA, Durham NC, Wilson NC

• Bristol Myers Squibb: New Brunswick NJ, Princeton NJ, Devens MA

• AbbVie: North Chicago IL, Worcester MA

• Eli Lilly: Indianapolis IN, Research Triangle Park NC

• Amgen: Thousand Oaks CA, Cambridge MA, Puerto Rico

• Gilead Sciences: Foster City CA, Edmonton Canada operations

• Regeneron: Tarrytown NY, Rensselaer NY

• Genentech/Roche: South San Francisco CA

• Takeda: Cambridge MA, Lexington MA

• Novartis: East Hanover NJ, Cambridge MA

• Sanofi: Bridgewater NJ, Cambridge MA, Framingham MA

• AstraZeneca: Gaithersburg MD, Frederick MD

• GlaxoSmithKline: Research Triangle Park NC, Philadelphia PA

Biopharmaceutical and Biotech Waste

Biotechnology and biologics manufacturing creates unique waste streams from cell culture, fermentation, and purification processes.

Bioprocessing Waste:

• Expired cell culture media and buffers

• Chromatography column waste (protein A columns, ion exchange resins)

• Filtration membrane waste

• Bioreactor cleaning solutions

• Centrifugation waste

• Viral inactivation reagents

• Monoclonal antibody production waste

• Recombinant protein purification waste

Cell Culture Materials:

• Fetal bovine serum (FBS) and other animal-derived components

• Growth factors and cytokines

• Antibiotics used in cell culture (gentamicin, penicillin-streptomycin)

• Selection agents (G418, puromycin, hygromycin)

• Transfection reagents

• Cryopreservation media

Gene Therapy and Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) Waste:

• Viral vector production waste

• CAR-T cell manufacturing waste

• CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing materials

• Lentiviral and adenoviral vector waste

• Cell therapy processing waste

Major biotech and biologics facilities:

• Moderna: Cambridge MA, Norwood MA (mRNA therapeutics and vaccines)

• BioNTech: Cambridge MA (mRNA technology)

• Vertex Pharmaceuticals: Boston MA (cystic fibrosis and other therapies)

• Biogen: Cambridge MA, Research Triangle Park NC (neurology and biosimilars)

• Alnylam Pharmaceuticals: Cambridge MA (RNAi therapeutics)

• Bluebird Bio: Somerville MA (gene therapy)

• Intellia Therapeutics: Cambridge MA (CRISPR/Cas9)

• CRISPR Therapeutics: Cambridge MA (gene editing)

• Sarepta Therapeutics: Cambridge MA (genetic medicine)

• Kite Pharma: Santa Monica CA (CAR-T cell therapy)

• Juno Therapeutics: Seattle WA (immunotherapy)

Expired and Unused Medications

Healthcare facilities, pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and manufacturers accumulate expired, damaged, or unused medications requiring compliant disposal.

Categories of expired medications:

• Prescription medications (brand name and generic)

• Over-the-counter medications

• Veterinary pharmaceuticals

• Compounded preparations

• Clinical trial investigational drugs

• Recalled medications

• Damaged or contaminated products

• Returns from patients and facilities

Common expired medications requiring hazardous waste disposal:

• Warfarin (EPA P listed waste - P001, acutely toxic rodenticide)

• Physostigmine (EPA P listed waste - P204, highly toxic)

• Nicotine patches and products (EPA P listed - P075 in some forms)

• Chlorambucil (EPA U listed waste - U035, alkylating agent)

• Cyclophosphamide (EPA U listed - U058, chemotherapy)

• Lindane (EPA U listed - U129, neurotoxic pesticide)

• Mitomycin C (EPA U listed - U010, antineoplastic)

• Mercury-containing medications (antiseptics, preservatives)

• Arsenic-containing medications (historical use, rare today)

• Chromium-containing medications (nutritional supplements)

Non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste: Most expired medications are NOT RCRA hazardous waste but still require proper disposal:

• Antibiotics (amoxicillin, azithromycin, ciprofloxacin)

• Analgesics (ibuprofen, acetaminophen, non-narcotic pain relievers)

• Cardiovascular medications (statins, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers)

• Diabetes medications (metformin, insulin)

• Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)

• Antihypertensives

• Gastrointestinal medications

While not RCRA hazardous, these still require compliant disposal to prevent:

• Environmental contamination

• Drug diversion and abuse

• Accidental pediatric ingestion

• Improper use

Controlled Substances (DEA-Regulated)

The Drug Enforcement Administration regulates controlled substances under the Controlled Substances Act. Disposal requires strict compliance with DEA regulations including use of DEA Form 41.

Schedule II Controlled Substances (High abuse potential, accepted medical use):

• Opioids: Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco), morphine, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), oxymorphone (Opana), methadone, fentanyl

• Stimulants: Amphetamine (Adderall), methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)

• Cocaine (used medically as topical anesthetic)

Schedule III Controlled Substances:

• Combination products with lower opioid doses: Tylenol with codeine, buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex)

• Ketamine

• Anabolic steroids

Schedule IV Controlled Substances:

• Benzodiazepines: Alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin), temazepam (Restoril)

• Sleep medications: Zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), zaleplon (Sonata)

• Tramadol (pain reliever)

Schedule V Controlled Substances:

• Cough preparations with small amounts of codeine

• Pregabalin (Lyrica)

• Lacosamide (Vimpa

t)

DEA disposal requirements:

• Authorized DEA registrants required for controlled substance disposal

• DEA Form 41 (Registrant's Inventory of Drugs Surrendered) must be completed

• Two-witness requirement for on-site destruction or transfer to reverse distributor

• Detailed inventory documentation including drug name, strength, quantity, NDC number

• Perpetual inventory adjustments

• Biennial inventory requirements

Facilities generating controlled substance waste:

• Hospitals and health systems: All acute care hospitals maintain controlled substance inventories

• Retail pharmacies: CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Walmart, Kroger pharmacies handle returns and expirations

• Long-term care facilities: Nursing homes accumulate patient-specific medications when patients expire or leave facility

• Hospice providers: Significant unused opioid quantities when patients pass away

• Ambulatory surgery centers: Operating room controlled substance waste

• Veterinary clinics: Animal controlled substances including ketamine, buprenorphine, controlled anesthetics

• Correctional healthcare: Prisons and jails with medical departments

• Compounding pharmacies: Specialized facilities preparing controlled substance formulations

Laboratory Chemical Waste from Healthcare Facilities

Hospital and clinical laboratories generate diverse chemical waste from diagnostic testing, pathology, microbiology, and research operations.

Clinical Chemistry Laboratory Waste:

• Reagents for automated chemistry analyzers

• Calibrators and quality control materials

• Acids and bases for pH adjustment

• Organic solvents from extraction procedures

• Heavy metal standards (lead, mercury, cadmium for blood level testing)

• Chromogenic substrates

• Enzyme reagents

Hematology and Coagulation Laboratory Waste:

• Staining reagents (Wright-Giemsa, special stains)

• Lysing reagents for cell counting

• Coagulation testing reagents

• Hemoglobin standards

• Methanol-based fixatives

Microbiology Laboratory Waste:

• Culture media (may contain infectious materials)

• Antibiotic sensitivity testing reagents

• Bacterial identification chemicals

• Mycobacterial testing reagents

• Fungal culture materials

• Parasitology preservatives and stains

Pathology and Histology Laboratory Waste:

• Formaldehyde and formalin (tissue fixation) - highly toxic, carcinogenic

• Xylene (tissue processing and staining) - flammable, toxic

• Alcohols (ethanol, isopropanol) for tissue dehydration

• Staining reagents (hematoxylin, eosin, special stains)

• Mounting media and solvents

• Decalcification solutions (formic acid, nitric acid, EDTA)

• Immunohistochemistry reagents

• Frozen section embedding media

Blood Bank Laboratory Waste:

• Typing and crossmatch reagents

• Antibody screening and identification reagents

• Quality control materials

• Expired blood products (not hazardous waste but require special disposal)

Molecular Diagnostics and Genetics Laboratory Waste:

• PCR reagents and master mixes

• DNA/RNA extraction chemicals (phenol-chloroform, guanidinium thiocyanate)

• Electrophoresis buffers and gels (ethidium bromide, SYBR dyes)

• Sequencing reagents

• Nucleic acid stains and dyes

• Restriction enzymes and molecular biology reagents

Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) Waste:

• Glucose meter quality control solutions

• Blood gas analyzer waste

• Portable coagulation device reagents

• Rapid diagnostic test waste

Radiology and Imaging Waste

Medical imaging departments generate photographic chemistry waste and equipment-related hazardous materials.

X-Ray Processing Chemistry:

• Developer solutions containing hydroquinone and phenidone (toxic reducing agents)

• Fixer solutions containing silver (precious metal recovery possible), sodium thiosulfate, acetic acid

• Spent fixer with high silver content (>5 troy ounces per gallon qualifies for silver recovery)

• Rinse water from film processing

Note: Digital radiography has largely replaced film-based X-rays, significantly reducing chemistry waste. However, many facilities still operate film processors for certain applications (mammography, dental radiography, veterinary medicine).

Silver Recovery Opportunities: Fixer solutions contain recoverable silver that can be:

• Electrolytically recovered on-site with silver recovery units

• Chemically precipitated with recovery chemicals

• Sent for off-site silver reclamation (reduces disposal costs, generates revenue)

Other Imaging Department Waste:

• Contrast media (iodinated compounds, gadolinium-based agents)

• Nuclear medicine waste (radioactive materials under separate NRC/state regulations)

• MRI equipment maintenance fluids (helium, cryogenic fluids)

• CT scanner maintenance chemicals

• Ultrasound equipment cleaners

Mercury-Containing Medical Waste

Mercury devices are being phased out but remain in use at some healthcare facilities, requiring specialized disposal.

Mercury-containing medical equipment:

• Mercury thermometers (fever thermometers, laboratory thermometers)

• Mercury sphygmomanometers (blood pressure devices)

• Gastrointestinal tubes containing mercury (Cantor tubes, Miller-Abbott tubes)

• Esophageal dilators with mercury weights

• Dental amalgam (separate dental waste stream)

• Laboratory equipment (mercury switches in older equipment)

• Broken mercury devices creating metallic mercury contamination

Mercury waste management:

• Intact mercury devices should be recycled through universal waste programs

• Broken devices creating mercury spills require specialized cleanup

• Dental amalgam waste subject to EPA Effluent Limitation Guidelines

• Many states have banned mercury thermometers and sphygmomanometers

• Replacement with digital alternatives recommended

Pharmaceutical Wastewater and Contaminated Materials

Healthcare facilities generate wastewater and materials contaminated with pharmaceutical residues.

Wastewater Streams:

• Toilet and sink waste from patient care areas (contains excreted pharmaceuticals)

• Sink waste from medication preparation areas

• Contaminated rinse water from equipment cleaning

• Spill cleanup wash water

• HVAC condensate from cleanrooms and compounding areas

• Steam sterilizer condensate

Most pharmaceutical wastewater:

• Not regulated as RCRA hazardous waste if disposed to sanitary sewer

• Subject to local pretreatment requirements

• Some facilities implement pharmaceutical waste minimization programs

• Emerging concern regarding pharmaceutical water contamination

Contaminated Materials Requiring Disposal:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) from chemotherapy handling (gowns, gloves, shoe covers)

• Empty IV bags that contained hazardous pharmaceuticals

• Vials and syringes from hazardous drug administration

• Tubing and administration sets

• Contaminated linens and textiles

• Spill cleanup materials (absorbents, wipes, mops)

• HEPA filters from compounding hoods

• Glove box and biological safety cabinet HEPA filters

Healthcare Facility Types We Serve

Hospitals and Medical Centers

Acute care hospitals generate the most diverse pharmaceutical and medical waste streams of any healthcare facility type.

Major hospital systems we serve:

Northeast:

• Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston MA) - Academic medical center, comprehensive services

• Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston MA) - Harvard teaching hospital

• Yale New Haven Hospital (New Haven CT) - Academic medical center

• NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (New York NY) - Columbia and Cornell affiliated

• Mount Sinai Health System (New York NY) - Multiple facilities

• NYU Langone Health (New York NY) - Academic medical center

• Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia PA)

• Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore MD) - Renowned research hospital

• UPMC (Pittsburgh PA) - Large integrated health system

Southeast:

• Duke University Hospital (Durham NC) - Academic medical center

• Emory University Hospital (Atlanta GA)

• Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville TN)

• University of Virginia Medical Center (Charlottesville VA)

• Tampa General Hospital (Tampa FL)

• Jackson Memorial Hospital (Miami FL) - Large public hospital

• Shands Hospital at University of Florida (Gainesville FL)

Midwest:

• Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland OH) - World-renowned cardiac care

• Mayo Clinic (Rochester MN) - Integrated academic medical center

• University of Chicago Medical Center (Chicago IL)

• Northwestern Memorial Hospital (Chicago IL)

• Rush University Medical Center (Chicago IL)

• University of Michigan Health (Ann Arbor MI)

• Barnes-Jewish Hospital (St. Louis MO) - Washington University affiliated

• Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center (Columbus OH)

West:

• UCSF Medical Center (San Francisco CA)

• Stanford Health Care (Palo Alto CA)

• UCLA Medical Center (Los Angeles CA)

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (Los Angeles CA)

• University of Washington Medical Center (Seattle WA)

• Oregon Health & Science University (Portland OR)

• University of Colorado Hospital (Aurora CO)

• Mayo Clinic (Phoenix and Scottsdale AZ)

Hospital waste includes:

• Oncology department chemotherapy waste

• Operating room pharmaceutical waste and sharps

• Emergency department medications and supplies

• Pharmacy department expired and unusable medications

• Intensive care unit (ICU) pharmaceutical waste

• Clinical laboratory chemical waste

• Radiology department chemistry (declining with digital)

• Patient care area contaminated materials

Outpatient Clinics and Physician Offices

Ambulatory care settings generate smaller quantities but still require compliant disposal.

Clinic types generating pharmaceutical waste:

• Oncology and infusion centers: Chemotherapy waste from outpatient cancer treatment

• Dialysis centers: Davita, Fresenius, independent centers generate pharmaceutical waste

• Surgical centers: Ambulatory surgery centers use anesthetics, controlled substances

• Pain management clinics: Controlled substance administration, injection waste

• Urgent care centers: Medications, contrast agents, procedural waste

• Specialty clinics: Dermatology (chemical peels, cryotherapy), ophthalmology (diagnostic drops), rheumatology (injectable biologics)

• Primary care offices: Expired vaccine refrigerators, sample medications, office-use pharmaceuticals

Long-Term Care and Nursing Homes

Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and memory care facilities accumulate significant quantities of patient-specific medications.

Long-term care waste challenges:

• Patient-specific medications discontinued when residents pass away, transfer, or change prescriptions

• Blister-packed and unit-dose medications difficult to return to pharmacy

• Controlled substance waste requires DEA compliance and witness destruction

• Medication cart cleanouts during facility transitions

• Hospice patient medication disposal after death (often includes substantial opioid quantities)

Major long-term care operators:

• Brookdale Senior Living - Large assisted living and skilled nursing operator

• Genesis HealthCare - Skilled nursing and rehabilitation

• Encompass Health - Rehabilitation hospitals

• Kindred Healthcare - Long-term acute care hospitals

• Life Care Centers of America

• Five Star Senior Living

Retail and Community Pharmacies

Pharmacies handle returned medications, expirations, damaged inventory, and recalled drugs.

Major pharmacy chains:

• CVS Pharmacy - Thousands of locations nationwide

• Walgreens/Duane Reade - Major retail pharmacy chain

• Rite Aid - Pharmacy chain in multiple states

• Walmart Pharmacy - In-store pharmacy operations

• Kroger Pharmacy - Grocery-based pharmacies

• Safeway/Albertsons Pharmacy - Supermarket pharmacies

• Sam's Club/Costco Pharmacy - Wholesale club pharmacies

• Independent pharmacies - Locally-owned community pharmacies

Pharmacy waste streams:

• Expired over-the-counter and prescription medications

• Damaged products from shipping or storage

• Discontinued products no longer carried

• Recalled medications from manufacturer or FDA recalls

• Returns from patients (now accepted under certain DEA regulations)

• Controlled substances requiring DEA Form 41 compliance

• Cytotoxic handling waste from chemotherapy compounding

Compounding Pharmacies

Specialized pharmacies preparing customized medications generate unique wastes.

Compounding waste includes:

• Bulk API powders and raw materials

• Compounding cleaning waste

• Failed preparations not meeting quality standards

• Expired compounded preparations

• Sterile compounding room HEPA filter waste

• Cytotoxic waste from chemotherapy compounding operations

Major compounding pharmacy types:

• Sterile compounding: IV medications, injections, ophthalmic preparations

• Non-sterile compounding: Topical preparations, oral dosage forms

• Specialty compounding: Hormone replacement therapy, pain management, veterinary

• 503B Outsourcing facilities: Large-scale sterile compounding with enhanced FDA oversight

Veterinary Clinics and Animal Hospitals

Veterinary medicine generates pharmaceutical waste similar to human healthcare.

Veterinary pharmaceutical waste:

• Expired animal medications

• Controlled substances (ketamine, buprenorphine, butorphanol, tramadol, phenobarbital)

• Chemotherapy drugs for animal cancer treatment

• Euthanasia solutions (pentobarbital - Schedule II controlled substance)

• Parasiticides and pesticides

• Anesthetic waste gases

• Laboratory chemicals

• Diagnostic reagents

Major veterinary hospital chains:

• VCA Animal Hospitals (owned by Mars Petcare) - Hundreds of locations

• Banfield Pet Hospital (Mars Petcare) - In-store veterinary clinics at PetSmart

• BluePearl Veterinary Partners - Emergency and specialty veterinary hospitals

• National Veterinary Associates (NVA) - Multi-state veterinary hospital network

• Southern Veterinary Partners (SVP)

• Mission Veterinary Partners

Specialty veterinary facilities:

• Oncology centers treating animal cancers

• Emergency and critical care hospitals

• Specialty surgical centers

• Equine hospitals and large animal practices

• Laboratory animal facilities at research institutions

Home Healthcare and Hospice

Providers delivering care in patient homes face unique waste challenges.

Home healthcare waste:

• Discontinued patient medications after death or discharge

• Unused hospice comfort kit medications (often include opioids)

• Home infusion therapy waste

• Diabetic supplies and sharps

• Visiting nurse medications and supplies

• Palliative care pharmaceutical waste

Major home health and hospice providers:

• Amedisys - Home health and hospice services

• LHC Group - Home health and hospice provider

• Kindred at Home (Gentiva) - Home health, hospice, and personal care

• Encompass Health Home Health

• BrightSpring Health Services

• VITAS Healthcare - Large hospice provider

• Chapters Health System

Clinical Research Organizations and Contract Research

CROs conducting clinical trials generate investigational drug waste.

Clinical trial waste:

• Unused investigational drug products

• Expired clinical trial materials

• Failed stability study samples

• Placebo materials

• Comparator drugs

• Returned patient medications from clinical trials

• Drug accountability and inventory waste

Major CROs:

• IQVIA - Global CRO and healthcare data provider

• LabCorp Drug Development - Clinical trial laboratory services

• PPD (now part of Thermo Fisher) - Clinical research services

• Syneos Health - Biopharmaceutical solutions organization

• ICON plc - Global CRO

• PRA Health Sciences (now ICON)

• Parexel - Clinical research services

• WuXi AppTec - Pharma R&D and manufacturing

Pharmaceutical Waste Regulations and Compliance

EPA RCRA Hazardous Waste Regulations

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) establishes the framework for hazardous waste management including pharmaceutical waste.

Hazardous Pharmaceutical Waste Determination

Pharmaceuticals are hazardous waste if they exhibit a hazardous characteristic or are specifically listed.

Characteristic Hazardous Waste (D-codes):

Ignitability (D001): Flash point <140°F

• Alcohol-based medications and tinctures

• Aerosols and inhalers (due to propellants)

• Hand sanitizers with >24% alcohol

• Some compounding solvents

Corrosivity (D002): pH ≤2 or ≥12.5

• Strong acids used in compounding

• Strong bases and alkaline solutions

• Some cleaning and disinfecting agents

Reactivity (D003): Unstable, water-reactive, or potentially explosive

• Peroxide-forming chemicals in laboratory settings

• Certain chemotherapy agents

• Oxidizers and reactive compounds

Toxicity (D004-D043): Contains specific toxic elements or compounds above regulatory levels

• Arsenic (D004) - rare in modern pharmaceuticals

• Selenium (D010) - some nutritional supplements

• Mercury (D009) - preservatives, antiseptics (thimerosal)

• Silver (D011) - silver nitrate cauterization sticks

• Chromium (D007) - some nutritional supplements

• Lead (D008) - rare but possible in older medications

Listed Hazardous Wastes (P and U codes):

P-Listed (Acutely Hazardous):

• P001: Warfarin >0.3% (anticoagulant rodenticide formulations)

• P042: Epinephrine (adrenaline in pure form)

• P075: Nicotine and nicotine salts (pure nicotine, concentrated forms)

• P092: Phenylmercuric acetate (preservative, rare in modern use)

• P106: Sodium cyanide (extremely rare in pharmaceuticals)

• P204: Physostigmine and salts (highly toxic alkaloid)

U-Listed (Toxic):

• U010: Mitomycin C (chemotherapy agent)

• U058: Cyclophosphamide (chemotherapy agent)

• U106: Diethylstilbestrol (DES, rarely used today)

• U122: Formaldehyde (tissue fixation, preservatives)

• U129: Lindane (neurotoxic pesticide, limited medical use)

• U186: 1,3-Pentadiene (rare pharmaceutical ingredient)

• U237: Uracil mustard (chemotherapy agent)

• U359: 2-Methylaziridine (alkylating agent)

Important Notes on Listed Wastes:

• P and U codes apply to UNUSED commercial chemical products only

• Empty containers that held P or U listed wastes may still be hazardous

• "Empty" has specific regulatory meaning (RCRA empty standards)

• Many chemotherapy drugs are P or U listed requiring stringent management

Non-Hazardous Pharmaceutical Waste: Most expired and unwanted medications are NOT RCRA hazardous waste but still require proper disposal to prevent environmental contamination and drug diversion.

Healthcare Generator Categories

Healthcare facilities are classified based on monthly hazardous waste generation.

Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs):

• Generate <100 kg (220 lbs) per month hazardous waste

• Accumulate <1,000 kg on-site at any time

• Most small physician offices, clinics, dental practices

• Minimal regulatory requirements but must ensure proper disposal

• Not required to have EPA ID number (but recommended)

• Not required to manifest waste (but best practice)

• Must send waste to legitimate disposal facility

Small Quantity Generators (SQGs):

• Generate 100-1,000 kg per month hazardous waste

• Must obtain EPA ID number

• Can accumulate waste for 180 days (270 days if disposal facility >200 miles)

• Must manifest hazardous waste shipments

• Basic employee training requirements

• Must have emergency preparedness procedures

• Many medium-sized hospitals, large clinics, surgical centers

Large Quantity Generators (LQGs):

• Generate ≥1,000 kg per month hazardous waste OR >1 kg per month acutely hazardous (P-listed) waste

• Must obtain EPA ID number

• Can accumulate waste maximum 90 days

• Must manifest all hazardous waste shipments

• Comprehensive employee training programs with annual refreshers

• Written contingency plans and emergency procedures

• Weekly storage area inspections with documentation

• Biennial hazardous waste reporting to EPA

• Must have certified personnel and formal training programs

• Large hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, major research institutions

Generator Category Impacts:

• Determines accumulation time limits

• Affects training and documentation requirements

• Influences facility inspection frequency by regulators

• Impacts insurance and liability considerations

• Many facilities implement aggressive waste minimization to maintain SQG status and avoid LQG requirements

DEA Controlled Substance Regulations

The Drug Enforcement Administration regulates controlled substance disposal under the Controlled Substances Act.

DEA Registration and Authorization

Only authorized DEA registrants can handle controlled substance disposal:

Authorized Entities:

• Reverse distributors: DEA-registered companies authorized to receive controlled substances for destruction (our company partners with authorized reverse distributors)

• Manufacturers: With authorization to destroy returned substances

• Retail pharmacies: With proper DEA registration and procedures

• Hospitals and practitioners: With DEA registration, can destroy under specific circumstances

• Narcotic treatment programs: With special authorization

• Law enforcement: Can receive controlled substances from the public

DEA Registration Requirements:

• All entities handling controlled substances must maintain current DEA registration

• Registration type determines authorized activities

• Separate registration required for each physical location

• Registration must be renewed every three years

• Registration can be suspended or revoked for violations

DEA Form 41 Requirements

Controlled substance destruction requires DEA Form 41 (Registrants' Inventory of Drugs Surrendered).

DEA Form 41 Information Required:

• Registrant name and DEA registration number

• Complete inventory of drugs being destroyed including:

  • Drug name (brand and generic)

  • National Drug Code (NDC) number

  • Dosage form and strength

  • Quantity (number of units, not just weight)

  • Whether controlled or non-controlled

• Date of inventory

• Two-witness requirement for verification

• Signatures of authorized personnel

• Method of disposal

Form 41 Process:

1. Registrant inventories controlled substances for destruction

2. Two witnesses observe and verify inventory

3. Form 41 completed with all required information

4. Substances transferred to reverse distributor OR destroyed on-site with DEA authorization

5. Completed Form 41 submitted to DEA Field Office

6. Copy retained by registrant for two years

7. Perpetual inventory adjusted for disposed substances

Common Form 41 Mistakes to Avoid:

• Incomplete drug information (missing NDC, strength, or quantity)

• Improper witness signatures

• Incorrect DEA registration numbers

• Mixing non-controlled substances on Form 41 (list separately)

• Not retaining required documentation

• Not submitting to correct DEA field office

Controlled Substance Security Requirements

Healthcare facilities must implement security measures for controlled substances.

Security Requirements:

• Secure storage: Locked cabinets, safes, or pharmacy vaults for controlled substance waste

• Access control: Limited access to authorized personnel only

• Surveillance: Many facilities use cameras in areas storing controlled substances

• Inventory controls: Perpetual inventory systems tracking all controlled substances

• Theft prevention: Physical security measures to prevent diversion

• Transportation security: Locked vehicles, direct custody, GPS tracking recommended

• Documentation: Complete chain of custody from generation to final destruction

Diversion Prevention:

• The opioid crisis has intensified DEA scrutiny of controlled substance handling

• Facilities must demonstrate robust controls preventing theft or diversion

• Employee screening and background checks for personnel handling controlled substances

• Unusual losses must be reported to DEA (Form 106 for thefts and significant losses)

• Regular audits of controlled substance inventories

State-Specific Pharmaceutical Waste Regulations

Many states have enacted regulations beyond federal EPA and DEA requirements.

States with Enhanced Pharmaceutical Waste Regulations

California:

• Medical Waste Management Act regulates pharmaceutical waste as medical waste in some circumstances

• Pharmaceutical waste that is also a hazardous waste subject to both regulations

• CalRecycle and DTSC oversight

• Universal waste regulations for certain pharmaceuticals

• Extended producer responsibility discussions for pharmaceutical waste

Washington:

• Dangerous Waste Regulations (WAC 173-303) more stringent than federal RCRA in some aspects

• Ecology administers pharmaceutical waste program

• State criteria may classify more pharmaceuticals as dangerous waste than federal hazardous

• Annual reporting for LQGs rather than biennial

Minnesota:

• Hospital and health care facility waste rules

• Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) oversight

• Specific requirements for pharmaceutical waste management plans

Massachusetts:

• Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) pharmaceutical waste regulations

• Enhanced controls for healthcare facility waste

• Universal waste programs for certain pharmaceuticals

New York:

• NYSDEC hazardous waste regulations with strict enforcement

• No 270-day extension for SQGs (strict 180-day limit)

• Annual generator fees

• Enhanced pharmaceutical waste requirements

Vermont:

• Enhanced regulations for pharmaceutical waste disposal

• State program administered by DEC

• Specific requirements for healthcare facilities

Other States with Specific Requirements: Many states have additional regulations including Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and others. We stay current with all state-specific requirements and ensure compliance across all jurisdictions.

State Pharmaceutical Take-Back Programs

Many states have enacted pharmaceutical take-back programs:

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs requiring manufacturers to fund collection

• Safe drug disposal programs operated by state agencies

• Authorized collector programs at pharmacies and law enforcement

• Mail-back programs for patient medications

These programs typically apply to patient medications, not healthcare facility waste generation. Healthcare facilities must use commercial disposal services for their pharmaceutical waste.

FDA Regulations and Recommendations

The Food and Drug Administration provides guidance on pharmaceutical waste.

FDA Recommendations:

• FDA Flush List identifies certain medications recommended for flushing down toilet if no take-back options available (applies to patients, not healthcare facilities)

• Most medications should NOT be flushed due to environmental concerns

• FDA recommends disposal of most medications in household trash after mixing with unpalatable substances (again, patient guidance not for healthcare facilities)

• Healthcare facilities should follow EPA RCRA and DEA requirements, not FDA patient recommendations

FDA Oversight:

• Drug recalls may result in large quantities requiring disposal

• Expired drugs must be disposed of properly

• 503B compounding outsourcing facilities under enhanced FDA oversight for waste handling

Our Pharmaceutical Waste Services

Comprehensive Pharmaceutical Waste Management Programs

We provide complete turnkey pharmaceutical waste management for healthcare facilities of all sizes.

Program Components:

• Initial waste assessment and facility survey

• Waste stream characterization and classification

• Regulatory status determination (RCRA, DEA, state requirements)

• Container provision (chemotherapy, pharmaceutical, sharps, controlled substance)

• Labeling and compliance materials

• Employee training programs

• Scheduled pickup services

• Controlled substance destruction with DEA Form 41 compliance

• Manifest and documentation management

• Certificates of destruction

• Regulatory compliance support

• Waste minimization consulting

Chemotherapy Waste Disposal

Specialized handling for cytotoxic pharmaceutical waste.

Chemotherapy Waste Services:

• Yellow chemotherapy waste containers sized appropriately for generation rates

• Trace chemotherapy waste containers for materials with residual contamination

• Bulk chemotherapy waste for large facilities

• Pickup scheduling coordinated with facility needs (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly)

• Incineration disposal ensuring complete destruction

• Chemotherapy spill cleanup and waste management

• Training for nursing staff and pharmacy on chemotherapy waste segregation

• Compliance with state-specific chemotherapy waste requirements

Facilities we serve:

• Oncology practices and infusion centers

• Hospital oncology departments

• Cancer treatment centers

• Compounding pharmacies preparing chemotherapy

• Research institutions studying chemotherapy agents

• Veterinary oncology practices

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Non-chemotherapy pharmaceutical waste management.

Services Include:

• Pharmaceutical waste containers (various sizes)

• Expired medication disposal

• Recalled drug disposal

• Damaged medication disposal

• Patient return medication disposal (where allowed)

• Investigational drug disposal for clinical trials

• Vaccine waste disposal

• Biological product waste disposal

Proper Segregation: We help facilities segregate:

• RCRA hazardous pharmaceutical waste (requiring manifesting and RCRA disposal)

• Non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste (majority of medications)

• Controlled substances (requiring DEA compliance)

• Chemotherapy waste (requiring incineration)

• This segregation reduces costs while maintaining compliance

Controlled Substance Disposal (DEA Compliance)

Complete controlled substance disposal with DEA Form 41 compliance.

Controlled Substance Services:

• Authorized reverse distribution partnerships

• DEA Form 41 preparation and submission

• Two-witness inventory and verification

• Secure transportation with chain of custody

• Witnessed destruction (on-site or at authorized facility)

• Documentation for DEA compliance

• Perpetual inventory reconciliation support

• Assistance with DEA reporting requirements

Process:

1. Facility inventories controlled substances for disposal

2. We schedule service and provide DEA Form 41 assistance

3. Our authorized personnel witness inventory with facility staff (two-witness requirement)

4. Controlled substances secured in locked transport

5. Substances transported to authorized reverse distributor

6. Destruction witnessed and documented

7. Completed Form 41 submitted to DEA

8. Certificate of destruction provided to facility

9. Facility adjusts perpetual inventory

Especially Important For:

• Hospital pharmacies with extensive controlled substance inventories

• Long-term care facilities with patient-specific controlled substance waste

• Hospice programs with unused opioid inventories after patient deaths

• Retail pharmacies with expired or returned controlled substances

• Veterinary practices with animal controlled substances

• Pain management clinics

Laboratory Chemical Waste Disposal

Hospital and clinical laboratory chemical waste management.

Laboratory Waste Services:

• Lab pack services for diverse chemical inventories

• Formaldehyde waste disposal (pathology and histology labs)

• Xylene and alcohol disposal (tissue processing)

• Reagent and quality control material disposal

• Heavy metal standards disposal

• Expired chemical disposal

• Broken thermometer mercury cleanup

• Spill cleanup and emergency response

Laboratory Types:

• Clinical chemistry laboratories

• Hematology and coagulation labs

• Microbiology laboratories

• Pathology and histology labs

• Blood bank laboratories

• Molecular diagnostics labs

• Cytogenetics and cytology labs

• Flow cytometry labs

• Research laboratories

Radiology and X-Ray Chemistry Disposal

Management of photographic processing waste from medical imaging.

X-Ray Chemistry Services:

• Developer solution disposal

• Fixer solution disposal with silver recovery options

• Silver recovery programs generating revenue from spent fixer

• Dental x-ray chemistry disposal

• Veterinary radiology waste disposal

• Mammography chemistry disposal

Silver Recovery Benefits:

• Reduces disposal costs significantly

• Generates revenue from recovered silver

• Environmental benefits from reclaiming precious metals

• Available for facilities still using film-based radiography

Note: Digital radiography has largely replaced film in most facilities, but many dental offices, veterinary clinics, and some specialized applications continue using film requiring chemistry disposal.

Pharmaceutical Waste Containerization

Appropriate containers for all pharmaceutical waste types.

Container Options:

Chemotherapy Waste Containers:

• 2-gallon, 3-gallon, 5-gallon, and 8-gallon sizes

• Yellow color-coded for visual identification

• Leak-proof construction meeting DOT specifications

• Clear labeling "Chemotherapy Waste - For Incineration Only"

• Available with hinged lids for easy access

Pharmaceutical Waste Containers:

• 2-gallon through 20-gallon sizes

• Blue or white containers (non-chemotherapy pharmaceutical waste)

• Designed for solid dosage forms and liquid medications

• RCRA-compliant labeling

Controlled Substance Containers:

• Lockable containers for secure controlled substance waste storage

• Tamper-evident seals

• Designed to meet DEA security requirements

• Various sizes for different generation rates

Sharps Containers:

• Puncture-resistant construction

• Multiple sizes from small (1-quart) to large (18-gallon)

• For needles, syringes, and other sharps

• Available with chemotherapy markings for cytotoxic sharps

Specialty Containers:

• Mercury waste containers for thermometers and sphygmomanometers

• Amalgam separators for dental offices

• Aerosol can puncturing devices (where allowed)

• Spill kit containers

Scheduled Pickup Services

Regular, predictable service for ongoing waste generation.

Pickup Frequency Options:

• Weekly service for high-volume generators

• Bi-weekly service for moderate volumes

• Monthly service for typical facilities

• Quarterly service for low-volume generators

• Custom schedules matching facility needs

Service Features:

• Consistent schedule and driver assignments

• Container exchange (pickup full, deliver empty)

• Manifesting and documentation

• Certificates of destruction

• Compliance verification

• Proactive compliance alerts (approaching accumulation time limits)

Ideal For:

• Hospital pharmacies and patient care areas

• Outpatient infusion centers

• Large physician practices

• Long-term care facilities

• Veterinary hospitals

• Compounding pharmacies

On-Demand and Emergency Services

Flexible service for sporadic needs or urgent situations.

On-Demand Pickup:

• Call for pickup when waste accumulates

• No long-term service contracts required

• Pay-per-pickup pricing

• Ideal for facilities with irregular waste generation

• Emergency room or urgent care overflow situations

Emergency Response Services:

• 24/7 availability for urgent needs

• Spill cleanup and emergency waste removal

• Regulatory inspection support (when regulators identify issues requiring immediate correction)

• Facility closure or transition assistance

• Recalled medication removal

• Expired vaccine refrigerator cleanouts

• Disaster response (facility floods, fires, or other emergencies creating immediate waste disposal needs)

Waste Characterization and Consulting

Expert assistance with waste identification and regulatory determination.

Characterization Services:

• Waste stream evaluation and EPA waste code determination

• RCRA hazardous waste classification

• Process knowledge documentation

• Analytical testing coordination (when required)

• Generator category determination

• Waste minimization assessments

Consulting Services:

• Regulatory compliance audits

• Waste management program development

• Written waste management plans

• Employee training programs

• Standard operating procedure (SOP) development

• Best practice recommendations

• Cost reduction strategies

Training and Education

Comprehensive training for healthcare facility staff.

Training Topics:

• Pharmaceutical waste identification and segregation

• RCRA hazardous waste regulations for healthcare

• DEA controlled substance waste regulations

• Container selection and proper labeling

• Accumulation time tracking

• Spill response procedures

• Safety and personal protective equipment

• Facility-specific procedures and SOPs

Training Formats:

• On-site group training sessions

• Department-specific training (pharmacy, nursing, laboratory)

• Online training modules

• Training materials and reference guides

• Annual refresher training

• New employee orientation materials

Documentation:

• Training attendance records

• Training certificates

• Training materials and presentations

• Competency verification

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Best Practices

Waste Segregation at Point of Generation

Proper segregation is critical for cost control and compliance.

Segregation Principles:

Separate chemotherapy waste from other pharmaceutical waste:

• Chemotherapy requires incineration (expensive)

• Non-chemotherapy pharmaceutical waste has less expensive disposal options

• Mixing increases costs unnecessarily

• Clear signage and color-coded containers prevent cross-contamination

Separate hazardous from non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste:

• Most expired medications are NOT RCRA hazardous

• RCRA hazardous waste requires manifesting and special disposal

• Non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste can be disposed more economically

• Understanding P and U listed wastes prevents unnecessary hazardous waste classification

Separate controlled substances:

• DEA regulations require separate tracking and documentation

• Controlled substance containers should be lockable

• Keep separate from non-controlled pharmaceutical waste

• Maintain perpetual inventory for controlled substance waste

Benefits of Proper Segregation:

• Reduced disposal costs (30-50% savings possible)

• Simplified regulatory compliance

• Easier inventory and tracking

• Reduced liability and risk

• Better waste minimization data

Container Management and Labeling

Proper container practices ensure safety and compliance.

Container Selection:

• Use appropriate container type and size for waste stream

• Ensure compatibility (containers must be compatible with waste contents)

• DOT-specification containers for transportation

• Leak-proof construction preventing spills

Container Placement:

• Locate containers at point of waste generation (medication rooms, pharmacy, chemotherapy preparation areas)

• Secure areas preventing unauthorized access

• Away from patient care areas when possible

• Clearly visible and easily accessible to authorized staff

• Protected from weather and temperature extremes

Labeling Requirements:

• "Hazardous Waste" label for RCRA waste

• Waste contents description

• Accumulation start date (critical for accumulation time limits)

• Generator name and address

• EPA ID number

• Hazard class and identification number for transportation

Container Management:

• Keep containers closed except when adding waste

• Inspect containers regularly for leaks or damage

• Replace damaged containers immediately

• Don't overfill (leave adequate headspace)

• Use absorbent material in liquid pharmaceutical waste containers

• Secure lids after each use

Accumulation Time Tracking

Diligent tracking prevents violations.

Accumulation Time Limits:

• LQGs: 90 days maximum

• SQGs: 180 days maximum (or 270 days if >200 miles to disposal facility)

• VSQGs: No federal time limit but recommended to dispose regularly

Tracking Systems:

• Mark accumulation start date on each container when first adding waste

• Use facility tracking systems (logbooks, spreadsheets, or software)

• Set reminders before accumulation limits approach

• Schedule pickups allowing adequate time before limits

• Consider weekly or monthly accumulation date audits

Common Problems:

• Unmarked containers (unknown accumulation date)

• Faded or illegible dates

• Incorrect dates (accumulation starts when FIRST adding waste, not when container is full)

• Exceeded time limits due to forgotten containers

• Lack of centralized tracking

Best Practices:

• Use permanent markers on container labels

• Photograph containers and dates periodically

• Implement centralized tracking system

• Assign responsibility for accumulation date monitoring

• Schedule pickups well before limits to allow for scheduling flexibility

Employee Training Programs

Well-trained staff are essential for compliance.

Training Requirements:

• Annual training for employees handling hazardous waste

• Initial training before job assignment

• Training within six months for new employees (LQG requirement)

• Documentation of training dates, topics, and attendees

Essential Training Content:

• Waste identification and characterization

• Segregation procedures

• Container selection and labeling

• Accumulation time requirements

• Spill response and emergency procedures

• Personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Facility-specific procedures and SOPs

• Regulatory overview (RCRA, DEA as applicable)

Training Methods:

• Group classroom sessions

• Department-specific training

• Hands-on demonstrations

• Computer-based training modules

• Annual refresher training

• Just-in-time reminders and reference materials

Documentation Best Practices:

• Training sign-in sheets with dates and employee signatures

• Training materials and handouts

• Training certificates

• Competency assessments

• Training records maintained for minimum three years after employee separation

• Readily accessible for regulatory inspections

Spill Response and Emergency Procedures

Preparedness prevents incidents from becoming emergencies.

Spill Response Kits:

• Absorbent materials (pads, booms, pillows)

• Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, gowns, respirators if needed)

• Neutralizing agents (for acid/base spills where appropriate)

• Disposal containers and bags

• Spill response procedures and emergency contacts

Spill Response Procedures:

1. Ensure personal safety first

2. Alert nearby personnel

3. Contain spill to prevent spreading

4. Evacuate area if hazardous vapors or large spills

5. Notify appropriate personnel (safety officer, environmental health and safety)

6. Clean up spill using appropriate PPE and methods

7. Place waste in proper disposal containers

8. Decontaminate affected areas

9. Document incident

10. Report if required by regulations

Emergency Contacts:

• Facility safety officer

• Environmental health and safety department

• Hazardous waste disposal company (us!) for assistance

• Local fire department or hazmat team for large or dangerous spills

• State environmental agency for reportable quantity releases

• National Response Center (1-800-424-8802) for significant releases

Chemotherapy Spill Considerations:

• Chemotherapy spills require specialized cleanup procedures

• Personnel should have specific chemotherapy spill training

• Chemotherapy spill kits should be available in preparation and administration areas

• Two people should perform cleanup when possible

• Complete PPE required (gowns, double gloves, face protection, shoe covers)

• All materials must be disposed as chemotherapy waste

Waste Minimization Strategies

Reducing pharmaceutical waste saves money and protects the environment.

Inventory Management:

• Implement first-in, first-out (FIFO) inventory rotation

• Monitor expiration dates closely

• Order quantities matching actual usage to prevent overstocking

• Centralized purchasing to reduce duplicate expired stock

• Computerized inventory systems tracking expirations

Clinical Practices:

• Patient-specific dosing and unit dose systems reduce excess medications

• Review physician prescribing patterns to reduce discontinued medications

• Medication reconciliation at transitions of care

• Patient education on medication adherence

• Automatic stop orders for certain medications

Process Improvements:

• Evaluate batch sizes for compounded preparations

• Implement just-in-time delivery for short-dated products

• Return programs with suppliers and distributors (where allowed)

• Donation programs for unexpired usable medications (must meet legal requirements)

• Substitution of less hazardous alternatives where clinically appropriate

Cost Benefits:

• Reduced purchasing costs (buy less that expires)

• Lower disposal costs (less waste generated)

• Labor savings (less time managing waste)

• Regulatory benefits (potentially lower generator category)

Documentation and Record Keeping

Meticulous records demonstrate compliance and protect from liability.

Required Documentation:

Manifests:

• Signed hazardous waste manifests for all RCRA waste shipments

• Retain for minimum three years (longer recommended)

• File systematically for easy retrieval

• Verify receipt of signed copy from disposal facility within 35-45 days

• Exception reporting if manifests not returned

DEA Form 41:

• Completed forms for all controlled substance disposals

• Copy to DEA Field Office

• Retain copy for two years minimum

• Attach to perpetual inventory documentation

Certificates of Destruction:

• Obtain from disposal company for all waste disposed

• Verify waste descriptions match manifests

• File with corresponding manifests

• Provide proof of disposal for audits

Training Records:

• Employee training dates and topics

• Training materials

• Attendance rosters with signatures

• Competency assessments

• Maintain for three years after employee separation

Inspection Logs:

• Weekly inspection records for storage areas

• Document date, inspector name, findings

• Corrective actions for deficiencies

• Container condition, labeling, dates

• Readily accessible for regulatory inspections

Waste Characterization:

• Process knowledge documentation

• Analytical results if testing performed

• EPA waste code determinations

• Generator knowledge supporting classifications

Perpetual Inventory (Controlled Substances):

• All controlled substance receipts and administrations

• Controlled substance waste generations

• Running balance for each controlled substance

• Reconciliation documentation

Best Practices:

• Centralized filing system

• Digital scanning and backup

• Retention schedule following regulations (minimum) and best practices (longer)

• Readily accessible for inspections and audits

• Periodic review to ensure completeness

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Costs

Understanding cost factors helps facilities budget appropriately and identify savings opportunities.

Cost Factors

Waste Type and Classification:

• Chemotherapy waste (most expensive): Requires incineration disposal

• RCRA hazardous pharmaceutical waste: Requires manifesting and hazardous waste disposal

• Controlled substances: Requires DEA compliance and witness destruction

• Non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste: Less expensive disposal options

• Proper segregation significantly reduces costs

Waste Quantity:

• Volume discounts for larger quantities

• Per-pound or per-container pricing

• Minimum charges may apply for very small quantities

• Annual agreements for predictable high volumes

Service Frequency:

• Scheduled regular service typically more cost-effective than on-demand

• Frequency affects per-pickup costs

• Balancing service frequency with accumulation time limits

Geographic Location:

• Transportation distances to disposal facilities

• Certain regions have higher disposal costs

• Rural areas may have higher transportation costs

• Proximity to permitted incinerators affects chemotherapy waste costs

Container Types and Sizes:

• Container purchase or rental costs

• Specialized containers (lockable, chemotherapy-specific) cost more

• Larger containers may offer better per-gallon costs

• Container exchange programs simplify budgeting

Regulatory Compliance Services:

• Training programs

• Waste characterization services

• Emergency response capabilities

• Documentation and manifest management

• DEA Form 41 assistance

• Consulting services

Typical Cost Ranges

Chemotherapy Waste Disposal:

• Small containers (2-3 gallon): $150-$300 per container

• Medium containers (5-8 gallon): $300-$600 per container

• Per-pound pricing: $3-$8 per pound

• Annual costs for typical infusion center: $3,000-$15,000

• Large hospital oncology department: $20,000-$100,000+ annually

Pharmaceutical Waste (Non-Chemotherapy, Non-Hazardous):

• Per-pound pricing: $1-$4 per pound

• Per-container: $100-$400 depending on size

• Bulk disposal for large cleanouts: $500-$3,000+ per pickup

• Annual costs for medium hospital: $5,000-$30,000

Controlled Substance Disposal:

• DEA-compliant disposal with Form 41: $200-$600 per pickup

• Based on complexity and quantity

• Witness destruction requirements increase costs

• On-site destruction options may reduce costs for large facilities

Laboratory Chemical Waste (Lab Packs):

• Per-drum pricing: $250-$800 per 55-gallon drum

• Depends on chemical types and hazard profiles

• Formaldehyde disposal: $3-$10 per gallon

• Xylene disposal: $3-$8 per gallon

X-Ray Chemistry Disposal:

• Developer: $2-$6 per gallon

• Fixer: $1-$4 per gallon (LESS when silver recovery program in place)

• Silver recovery can generate revenue offsetting disposal costs

Emergency Response Services:

• Emergency spill cleanup: $500-$5,000+ depending on scope

• Emergency same-day or next-day pickup: Premium charges $200-$500 above standard rates

• After-hours service: Additional charges apply

Training and Consulting:

• On-site training sessions: $500-$2,000 per session

• Compliance audits: $1,000-$5,000 depending on facility size

• Waste characterization: $500-$3,000 depending on complexity

Volume Discounts:

• Annual service agreements offer 10-30% cost savings

• Larger quantities receive better per-unit pricing

• Multi-facility organizations can negotiate enterprise pricing

Cost Reduction Strategies

Optimize Waste Segregation:

• Separate chemotherapy from non-chemotherapy pharmaceutical waste (can save 30-50% on non-chemo waste)

• Separate RCRA hazardous from non-hazardous

• Don't dispose of non-controlled substances as controlled substances

• Proper segregation is the single most effective cost control strategy

Implement Waste Minimization:

• Reduce purchasing of excessive quantities

• Improve inventory rotation and expiration date management

• Implement unit dose and patient-specific dosing

• Clinical practice changes reducing waste generation

Optimize Service Frequency:

• Balance accumulation time limits with service frequency

• Consolidate pickups when possible

• Avoid emergency or rush pickups through proper planning

• Schedule regular service matching waste generation rates

Container Management:

• Right-size containers for waste streams (don't use oversized containers)

• Container exchange programs reduce handling and storage costs

• Maximize fill levels without overfilling

• Use appropriate container types (don't use expensive chemotherapy containers for non-chemo waste)

Silver Recovery Programs:

• Implement silver recovery for x-ray fixer solutions

• Can generate revenue of $100-$1,000+ annually depending on volume

• Reduces fixer disposal costs significantly

• Environmental benefit from precious metal reclamation

Annual Service Agreements:

• Negotiate fixed pricing for predictable budgeting

• Volume commitments receive better pricing

• Multi-year agreements may offer additional savings

• Quarterly business reviews identifying further savings opportunities

Staff Training:

• Well-trained staff make fewer costly mistakes

• Reduce contamination and mixing of waste streams

• Prevent accumulation time violations

• Fewer emergency situations requiring premium services

Common Pharmaceutical Waste Questions

Q: Are all expired medications hazardous waste?

A: No. Most expired medications are NOT RCRA hazardous waste. Only medications that exhibit hazardous characteristics (ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, toxicity) or are specifically P or U listed wastes are RCRA hazardous. However, ALL pharmaceutical waste (hazardous and non-hazardous) requires proper disposal - never down drains or in regular trash. Proper segregation between hazardous and non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste significantly reduces disposal costs.

Q: What's the difference between chemotherapy waste and other pharmaceutical waste?

A: Chemotherapy waste contains cytotoxic drugs (antineoplastic agents) that are carcinogenic, mutagenic, and/or teratogenic. Due to these hazardous properties, chemotherapy waste requires incineration disposal which is more expensive than landfill disposal. Chemotherapy waste includes IV bags, vials, syringes, tubing, and PPE contaminated during chemotherapy handling. Items with only trace amounts of chemotherapy drugs may qualify as "trace chemotherapy waste" with less stringent requirements. Proper segregation of chemotherapy waste from other pharmaceutical waste is critical for cost control.

Q: How do I know if a medication is a P or U listed waste?

A: The EPA maintains lists of P and U waste codes for specific commercial chemical products. P listed wastes are acutely hazardous, while U listed are toxic. Common pharmaceutical P and U listed wastes include warfarin (P001), cyclophosphamide (U058), mitomycin C (U010), physostigmine (P204), nicotine (P075), and several other specific drugs. Importantly, P and U codes apply only to UNUSED commercial chemical products, not to patient-administered medications or empty containers. We can help identify whether your medications are P or U listed and determine proper waste codes.

Q: What are the DEA requirements for disposing of controlled substances?

A: DEA requires specific procedures for controlled substance disposal:

• Only authorized DEA registrants can handle controlled substances for destruction

• DEA Form 41 must be completed for all controlled substance disposals

• Two witnesses must verify the inventory of controlled substances being destroyed

• Form 41 must be submitted to the DEA Field Office

• Registrant must maintain copy for two years

• Perpetual inventory must be adjusted for disposed substances

• Secure storage and transportation with chain of custody documentation

We provide DEA-compliant controlled substance disposal services, including Form 41 assistance, witnessed destruction, and complete documentation.

Q: How long can we store pharmaceutical waste before disposal?

A: Storage time limits depend on your generator category:

• Large Quantity Generators (LQGs): Maximum 90 days

• Small Quantity Generators (SQGs): Maximum 180 days, or 270 days if disposal facility is more than 200 miles away

• Very Small Quantity Generators (VSQGs): No federal time limit, but accumulation shouldn't exceed 1,000 kg on-site

The accumulation "clock" starts when you FIRST add waste to a container, not when the container is full. Exceeding accumulation time limits is a common violation. We help facilities track accumulation dates and schedule pickups ensuring compliance.

Q: Can we dispose of pharmaceutical waste down the sink or toilet?

A: Generally NO. Flushing pharmaceuticals can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic ecosystems. The FDA maintains a small "Flush List" of specific medications recommended for flushing (primarily to prevent accidental ingestion or diversion), but this applies to patient disposal, not healthcare facility waste. Healthcare facilities must follow EPA RCRA and DEA regulations requiring proper waste disposal through authorized companies. Never flush pharmaceutical waste unless specifically advised for certain patient safety scenarios.

Q: What should we do if we exceed our accumulation time limits?

A: Contact us immediately for emergency pickup service. Document the situation including:

• Date accumulation limit was exceeded

• Reason for the violation

• Corrective actions taken

• Steps to prevent recurrence

Report the violation to your state environmental agency as required. Many states offer compliance assistance programs for self-disclosed violations. Implement procedures preventing future violations including:

• Better accumulation date tracking systems

• Earlier pickup scheduling allowing flexibility

• Staff training on accumulation time requirements

• Automated reminders before limits approach

Q: Do we need an EPA ID number?

A: It depends on your generator category:

• Large Quantity Generators and Small Quantity Generators: YES, EPA ID number required

• Very Small Quantity Generators: NOT required but recommended

To obtain an EPA ID number, contact your state environmental agency or use EPA's online system. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks. You'll need your EPA ID number for hazardous waste manifesting and reporting.

Q: What's the difference between "empty" and "RCRA empty" for pharmaceutical containers?

A: RCRA defines specific "empty" standards for containers:

• For containers ≤110 gallons: All waste removed by normal means (pouring, pumping, etc.), and no more than 3% by weight remains (1 inch or less residue)

• For containers >110 gallons: All waste removed and no more than 0.3 inches residue

• For acute hazardous (P-listed) waste: Containers must be triple-rinsed or cleaned by equivalent method

"RCRA empty" containers are no longer hazardous waste and can be discarded as regular trash or recycling. Non-RCRA empty containers must be managed as hazardous waste if they contained hazardous materials.

Q: How do we handle pharmaceutical spills?

A: Follow your facility's spill response procedures:

1. Ensure personal safety - use appropriate PPE

2. Contain spill to prevent spreading

3. Alert nearby personnel and evacuate if needed

4. Clean up using absorbent materials and appropriate methods

5. Place cleanup materials in proper waste containers

6. Decontaminate affected surfaces

7. Document the incident

8. Report if required by facility policy or regulations

For chemotherapy spills, use specialized chemotherapy spill kits with enhanced PPE and follow cytotoxic drug spill procedures. We can provide emergency spill cleanup assistance for large or complex spills.

Q: Can unused medications be donated to other facilities or patients?

A: Very limited circumstances allow medication donation:

• Some states permit donation of unopened, unexpired medications to charitable clinics or developing countries

• Strict requirements for handling, storage, and distribution apply

• Most patient-specific medications cannot be donated

• Opened or partially used medications generally cannot be donated

• Controlled substances have additional restrictions

Most unused pharmaceutical waste cannot be donated and requires proper disposal. Check state-specific laws and facility policies before attempting donation.

Q: What training do our employees need for pharmaceutical waste handling?

A: Training requirements depend on generator category and roles:

All employees handling hazardous pharmaceutical waste need training on:

• Waste identification and characterization

• Proper segregation procedures

• Container selection and labeling

• Accumulation time requirements

• Spill response and emergency procedures

• Personal protective equipment

• Facility-specific SOPs

Large Quantity Generators must provide:

• Initial training before job assignment (or within 6 months)

• Annual refresher training

• Documentation of training dates, topics, and attendees

• Training records maintained for three years after employee separation

Small Quantity Generators and Very Small Quantity Generators should provide:

• Initial and periodic training as needed

• Documentation recommended even if not required

We provide customized training programs for healthcare facilities of all sizes.

Q: How do we manage pharmaceutical waste during a facility closure or relocation?

A: Contact us for facility closure waste management services:

• Complete inventory of all pharmaceutical waste

• Expedited disposal coordinating with closure timeline

• Cleanout of pharmacy departments, medication rooms, and storage areas

• Controlled substance disposal with DEA Form 41 compliance

• Laboratory chemical disposal

• Equipment decontamination assistance

• Documentation for facility closure records

Plan closures well in advance allowing time for proper waste characterization and disposal. Emergency/rush closures incur premium charges but we can accommodate urgent timelines.

Q: What happens to pharmaceutical waste after you pick it up?

A: Pharmaceutical waste disposal pathways depend on waste type:

Chemotherapy waste: Transported to EPA-permitted hazardous waste incinerator for complete thermal destruction at high temperatures (typically >1800°F), ensuring cytotoxic drugs are completely destroyed.

RCRA hazardous pharmaceutical waste: Transported to permitted treatment, storage, and disposal facilities for incineration, fuel blending, chemical treatment, or secure landfill disposal after treatment meeting land disposal restrictions.

Non-hazardous pharmaceutical waste: Transported to permitted waste-to-energy facilities, incinerators, or specially permitted landfills accepting pharmaceutical waste. Some facilities use treatment technologies rendering drugs non-retrievable before disposal.

Controlled substances: Transferred to DEA-authorized reverse distributors who destroy substances under DEA oversight, with destruction witnessed and documented.

We provide certificates of destruction documenting final disposal for all waste, including disposal facility name, disposal method, and completion date.

Q: Are there recycling options for pharmaceutical waste?

A: Limited pharmaceutical waste recycling opportunities exist:

Silver recovery from X-ray fixer: Economically valuable and widely practiced. Silver can be electrolytically recovered, chemically precipitated, or sent to silver reclaimers generating revenue offsetting disposal costs.

Pharmaceutical packaging: Outer packaging (boxes, bottles, etc.) may be recyclable if not contaminated. Contaminated packaging requires disposal as pharmaceutical waste.

Investigational drugs: Some clinical trial medications can be returned to sponsors for evaluation rather than disposal.

Donation programs: Very limited opportunities for unopened, unexpired medications to charitable organizations (state-specific regulations apply).

Most pharmaceutical waste cannot be recycled due to contamination, regulatory restrictions, and lack of reclamation value. Proper disposal is required for the vast majority of pharmaceutical waste.

Getting Started with Pharmaceutical Waste Services

What to Have Ready

When contacting us for pharmaceutical waste disposal services, having the following information helps us provide accurate quotes and appropriate service recommendations:

Facility Information:

• Facility type (hospital, clinic, pharmacy, long-term care, etc.)

• Number of beds or patient volume

• Physical address and service location

• Current generator category (if known) or estimated monthly waste quantities

Waste Types and Quantities:

• Chemotherapy waste (estimated monthly volume)

• General pharmaceutical waste (estimated monthly volume)

• Controlled substances (yes/no and approximate quantities)

• Laboratory chemical waste (types and quantities)

• X-ray chemistry waste (if applicable)

• Specific P or U listed wastes (if known)

Current Waste Management:

• Existing disposal arrangements (if any)

• Current challenges or pain points

• Compliance concerns

• Accumulation time issues

Service Preferences:

• Desired service frequency (weekly, monthly, on-demand)

• Container needs (sizes and types)

• Special requirements (after-hours pickup, witnessed destruction, training)

• Budget considerations

Regulatory Status:

• EPA ID number (if you have one)

• State permits or registrations

• Recent inspections or violations

• Compliance assistance needs

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation: Free consultation discussing your facility's needs, waste types, volumes, and compliance requirements. We answer questions and provide preliminary recommendations.

2. Facility Assessment: For larger facilities or complex needs, we conduct on-site waste assessments evaluating:

• Waste generation points and quantities

• Current storage and handling practices

• Segregation procedures

• Regulatory compliance status

• Waste minimization opportunities

• Container and service frequency recommendations

3. Customized Proposal: Detailed proposal including:

• Service description and frequency

• Container types and quantities

• Pricing (transparent, itemized)

• Compliance support services

• Implementation timeline

• Contract terms

4. Program Implementation:

• Container delivery and placement

• Staff training and orientation

• Procedure development and documentation

• Initial pickup scheduling

• Compliance verification

5. Ongoing Service:

• Scheduled pickups per agreed frequency

• Manifesting and documentation

• Certificates of destruction

• Compliance monitoring and alerts

• Periodic program reviews and optimization

• Responsive customer service and support

6. Continuous Improvement:

• Quarterly or annual business reviews

• Waste minimization recommendations

• Cost optimization opportunities

• Regulatory update communications

• Training refreshers

Why Healthcare Facilities Choose Us

Specialized Healthcare Expertise: Over three decades serving healthcare facilities from small practices to major medical centers. We understand healthcare operations, clinical workflows, and the unique challenges of pharmaceutical waste management in medical environments.

Complete Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive expertise in EPA RCRA regulations, DEA controlled substance requirements, and state-specific pharmaceutical waste rules. We stay current with regulatory changes and ensure your program remains compliant.

Flexible Service Models: Services scaled and customized for facilities of all sizes and types - from solo physician practices to academic medical centers, from retail pharmacies to pharmaceutical manufacturers.

DEA-Authorized Services: Partnerships with DEA-authorized reverse distributors ensuring compliant controlled substance disposal with complete documentation including DEA Form 41 preparation and submission.

Cost-Effective Solutions: Proper waste segregation guidance, waste minimization consulting, and efficient service design reducing disposal costs while maintaining compliance. Transparent pricing without hidden fees.

Responsive Customer Service: Dedicated account management, 24/7 emergency response availability, rapid quote turnarround, and proactive communication. We understand healthcare facilities operate around the clock and need responsive partners.

Comprehensive Documentation: Complete manifest and certification documentation, electronic record access, audit support materials, and training documentation. Our documentation helps facilities demonstrate compliance during inspections and audits.

Training and Support: Customized training programs for clinical and non-clinical staff, ongoing compliance support, regulatory updates and alerts, and best practice recommendations. We're partners in your compliance program, not just a disposal vendor.

Environmental Stewardship: Commitment to environmentally responsible disposal methods, waste minimization and pollution prevention, recycling and recovery opportunities where available, and support for healthcare facilities' sustainability goals.

Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal by State

We provide pharmaceutical and healthcare hazardous waste disposal services throughout all 50 states. Click your state for specific information on state regulations, major healthcare facilities we serve, and local service details:

Northeast

• Connecticut Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Maine Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Massachusetts Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• New Hampshire Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• New Jersey Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• New York Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Pennsylvania Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Rhode Island Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Vermont Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Southeast

• Alabama Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Arkansas Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Delaware Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Florida Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Georgia Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Kentucky Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Louisiana Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Maryland Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Mississippi Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• North Carolina Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• South Carolina Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Tennessee Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Virginia Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• West Virginia Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Midwest

• Illinois Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Indiana Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Iowa Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Kansas Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Michigan Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Minnesota Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Missouri Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Nebraska Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• North Dakota Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Ohio Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• South Dakota Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Wisconsin Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Southwest

• Arizona Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• New Mexico Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Oklahoma Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Texas Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

West

• Alaska Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• California Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Colorado Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Hawaii Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Idaho Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Montana Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Nevada Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Oregon Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Utah Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Washington Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

• Wyoming Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Contact Us for Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal

Call (800) 582-4833 or email info@hazardouswastedisposal.com

We're ready to help with:

• Free consultations and quotes

• Facility waste assessments

• Regulatory compliance guidance

• Emergency pharmaceutical waste removal

• Scheduled service programs

• DEA-compliant controlled substance disposal

• Training and staff education

• All your pharmaceutical and healthcare waste needs

Serving healthcare facilities nationwide, since 1992

Operating across all 50 states with expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing, hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, long-term care facilities, research institutions, and all healthcare operations generating pharmaceutical waste.

Let us handle your pharmaceutical waste management so you can focus on patient care and pharmaceutical development. Contact us today for expert, compliant, cost-effective pharmaceutical waste disposal services.