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Bags that render medications inert now available at Aspirus pharmacies

UPPER PENINSULA, MI— Aspirus Upper Peninsula pharmacies have launched a new Medication Deactivation Bag Program at locations in Houghton, Laurium, Ontonagon, and Ironwood.

The pouches contain activated carbon that destroys unused or expired medications by rendering them inert.

Officials say proper disposal of old prescriptions protects the environment from contamination, limits the misuse of drugs, and prevents accidental ingestion—especially by children and vulnerable adults.

Aspirus received medication disposal supplies through the Opioid Prescribing Engagement Network Program at the University of Michigan. They can be obtained for free from any participating Aspirus Pharmacy location in Houghton, Laurium, Ontonagon, or Ironwood.

Nicole was born near Detroit but has lived in the U.P. most of her life. She graduated from Marquette Senior High School and attended Michigan State and Northern Michigan Universities, graduating from NMU in 1993 with a degree in English.