ALBANY -  Drop boxes will be placed at nine New York State Police troop headquarters that will give New Yorkers across the state a secure place to anonymously dispose of unused prescription medications and controlled substances.

"With the state cracking down harder than ever before on prescription drug abuse, these secure drop boxes will give New Yorkers a place to dispose of unneeded medications, helping keep harmful substances out of the hands of those who would abuse them," Governor Andrew Cuomo said. 

New York’s State Troopers are often faced with situations involving the abuse of prescription medications. Recognizing that more than 70 percent of the abused prescription medications are obtained from friends or relatives, the State Police has established secure disposal sites at nine Troop Headquarters locations for the safe disposal of unused controlled substances.

The medication drop box program is open to the public. The public can anonymously dispose of prescription medications, medicated ointments, over-the-counter medications, and inhalers. Hazardous materials and needles are not accepted. Pharmacies and medical providers are not allowed to take part in the program.

Medication drop boxes will be in the following locations and made available to the public: