CVS To Install Drug Disposal Boxes In 49 Indiana Locations

National pharmacy chain CVS announced Thursday it will install drug disposal boxes at 49 of its stores around Indiana.

The units will allow Hoosiers to get rid of unneeded and unused prescription drugs.

CVS Health chief policy and external affairs officer Thomas Moriarty says the pharmacy chain is doing everything it can to ensure the boxes installed in its 24-hour locations can’t be tampered with or stolen.

“It is bolted to the floors; it is bolted to the walls,” Moriarty says. “It’s high-grade, heavy, heavy steel.”

Moriarty says the national chain will explore more boxes in the future – but notes regulation and costs make it challenging.

Tim Troyer is the Steuben County sheriff and Indiana Sheriffs Association president. He says as more 24-7 options become available, he hopes people shift their drug disposal from a special event – like occasional drug take-back days – to a habit.

“Many of those people are more comfortable coming in here – and it’s easier for them, they’re in here anyway – than going maybe to their local law enforcement agency,” Troyer says.

The Attorney General’s office maintains a list of statewide drug disposal sites.