Inhalers

Alternative ways to recycle
Hazardous Waste

Hazardous Waste Collection 
Inhalers need special handling to avoid exposure for waste workers, the community, and the environment.

City Specific Disposal Options
Please check with your city page (residential or commercial) to confirm if additional options are available, such as home collection, drop-off locations, and/or events. (These options vary per city.)

Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Drop-Off
Your city or county may offer HHW drop-off sites and collection events.
– Los Angeles County: S.A.F.E. Collection Centers and events
– Riverside County
San Bernardino County
– Ventura County 

Disposal Options For Businesses
Hazardous waste cannot be placed in your containers. Schedule a Special Waste Collection by emailing [email protected] or calling Athens’ Customer Service Department at 888-336-6100. Fees may apply.

Some HHW drop-off centers may allow drop off by small business generators (check links above).

Never Throw in the Garbage

Older inhalers contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CFCs can damage the ozone layer, so never throw them in the garbage. Follow the disposal instructions on the inhaler’s label and dispose of them as hazardous waste.

no heat

Never Puncture or Burn

Do not puncture the container or throw it into the fire because an inhaler is an aerosol product and could explode.

Alternative Ways to Recycle

pharmacy

Return Used Cartridges to the Pharmacy

Some pharmacies and law enforcement offices are registered with the DEA as authorized drug collectors. You can drop off used inhaler cartridges at these locations. Find a DEA-authorized disposal location.