Donating Unused Medications, Personal Care Products, Medical Supplies and Equipment

It seems like a win-win situation, to share the things we have with people who need them, and it is possible to donate medications under certain conditions. Unfortunately, overseas donations of waste medications can become a real burden to the recipients, especially in nations where proper disposal options are limited.

You may donate:

• Certain drugs for treating cancer and chronic diseases. Wisconsin allows certain pharmacies to take back unit doses of drugs for cancer and chronic diseases. These drugs may be donated for re-issuance through the Cancer Drug Repository [exit DNR].
• Unexpired, unopened prescription medications from businesses and institutions. These may be donated to health practitioners who have authority to dispense drugs. For example, if the drugs meet World Health Organization (WHO guidelines for donating drugs) [exit DNR], you may donate to a doctor who volunteers locally or overseas. Veterinarians are able to use some medications as well (call first).
• Medical supplies and equipment. Hospitals for a Healthy Environment [exit DNR] has a list of organizations that accept donations (search for "resources for donations"). Wisconsin based non-profit organizations that accept donations include the Wheelchair Recycling Program [exit DNR] and Sharing Resources Worldwide [exit DNR].

You may not donate:

• Opened personal care products. However, by using good judgment and including the instructions for use, households may share them with friends and family. Otherwise, dispose of them.
• Unexpired prescription medications from households. Except as allowed under the Cancer Drug Repository mentioned above, most charities will not accept them. See Disposal Options for Households.
• Expired (outdated) prescription medications. These are waste and should be managed accordingly. See Disposal Options for Households or Disposal Options for Non-households.
• Controlled substances. According to federal Drug Enforcement Administration< [exit DNR] rules, dispensed controlled substances may only be in the possession of the person to whom they were prescribed or of law enforcement agencies.