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How to Dispose or Recycle Eli Lilly KwikPens in the UK

disposing of kwikpens

Properly Disposing KwikPens is essential—not just for personal safety, but also to protect our environment. If you or a loved one uses Mounjaro or other injectable medications through KwikPens, it’s crucial to know how to get rid of them the right way.

This guide explains how to dispose of KwikPens safely, including how to handle needles, get rid of unused medication, and stay informed about potential recycling updates. With a few simple habits, you can protect yourself, others, and the planet.

Can You Recycle KwikPens in the UK?

Unfortunately, KwikPens aren’t recyclable through household bins. They contain plastic components and trace amounts of medicine, which complicates normal recycling processes.

That said, there are still safe and responsible ways to dispose of them—and as awareness grows, new recycling options could become available.

Quick Advice About Disposing of KwikPens:

  • Do not attempt to refill an empty KwikPen—they’re designed for single use.
  • Always remove the needle and place it in a sharps bin.
  • The pen body can go in your general waste—or in a sharps container if you’re being extra cautious.

While recycling isn’t yet available for KwikPens, keep an eye out—some manufacturers are actively developing greener alternatives.

How to Dispose of KwikPens Safely

Read How to Dispose of Needles Safely

The first thing you need to handle is the needle, which must be done carefully.

👉 Read our full guide

Never throw loose needles into the bin. That’s not only dangerous but also illegal in many areas. Instead:

This step protects not only you but also waste handlers and the environment.

Throwing Away the Empty KwikPen

Once the needle is removed, the pen is safer to handle. You have a couple of options:

  • Most users place the pen in their general waste bin—this is fine if the needle is removed.
  • You can also use a sharps bin for added safety.

Important: Do not place the pen in household recycling—it may still contain medical residue and won’t be processed correctly.

Are There Any Recycling Programs for KwikPens?

Currently, Eli Lilly does not offer a KwikPen-specific recycling program in the UK. However, the landscape is changing, disposing of Kwikpens may soon be easier with recycling options.

Several other pharmaceutical companies are taking the lead with initiatives like:

  • PenCycle® (Novo Nordisk) – Collects and recycles used pens via participating pharmacies.
  • RePen® (Sanofi) – Offers a postal return service for used insulin pens.

Although these don’t cover KwikPens (yet), they’re signs of progress. For now, the most responsible approach is to dispose of KwikPens safely while staying alert for future programs.

Disposing of KwikPens Properly Matters

Every time you dispose of a KwikPen responsibly, you’re helping:

  • Prevent injuries caused by used needles or residue.
  • Protect the environment by reducing waste in landfills and waterways.
  • Comply with UK waste regulations, which prohibit the improper disposal of medical items.

Your actions might feel small—but multiplied across thousands of users, they make a real difference.

Final Tips for Disposing of KwikPens

✔ Use a sharps bin for needles—never throw them in the general bin.
✔ Discard empty pens in household waste, or use a sharps bin if preferred.
✔ Take unused or expired meds to a pharmacy—never flush or trash them.
✔ Watch for new recycling programs—change may be closer than you think.

For the latest Disposing of KwikPens guidance, check the Eli Lilly, NHS or contact your local council about medical waste disposal in your area.

By following these steps, you can confidently and responsibly dispose of KwikPens—and be ready when better recycling options arrive.

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