(HealthDay News) — Walmart is launching a first-of-its-kind opioid disposal solution in all company pharmacies, which is available at no cost, according to a press release from the company.
Noting that more than 65% of people misusing prescription opioids get them from family and friends, and that personal prescriptions are a major source of non-medical opioid abuse, DisposeRx provides an easy way to responsibly dispose of leftover prescription medications. The small packet contains a crosslinking polymer blend that is emptied into a pill bottle with warm water, transforming any form of prescription drugs into a non-divertible and biodegradable gel, which can be thrown in the trash.
The disposal solution will be available at pharmacies, in addition to counseling on proper opioid use, which is offered to Walmart customers when filling an opioid prescription. Pharmacists can counsel patients on use of DisposeRx, and distribute an educational brochure related to opioids. Patients filling any new Class II opioid prescription at Walmart pharmacies will receive a free DisposeRx packet beginning immediately. Patients with chronic Class II opioid prescriptions will be offered a free packet every 6 months. Existing pharmacy patients can request a free packet at any time.
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“Walmart is incredibly proud to fund this initiative that provides our patients with an opioid disposal solution they can access nationwide, at no cost,” Marybeth Hays, executive vice president of Consumables and Health and Wellness at Walmart US, said in a statement.
Reference
- Retailer first national pharmacy chain to offer free opioid disposal solution at all pharmacy locations [press-release]. Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Jan 17, 2018. Accessible at: https://news.walmart.com/2018/01/17/walmart-launches-groundbreaking-disposal-solution-to-aid-in-fight-against-opioid-abuse-and-misuse
