Unused medications can be dropped off at local collection sites between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
THURSDAY, April 26, 2017 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and local agencies are holding the 15th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day across the country this Saturday, April 28.
Pills or patches can be dropped off between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at local collection sites. Needles, sharps, and liquids will not be accepted by the DEA. The service is free and anonymous.
Last fall, more than 912,000 pounds of prescription drugs were turned in at more than 5,300 Take Back Day sites operated by the DEA and nearly 4,300 state and local law enforcement partners. In the 14 previous Take Back events, more than 9 million pounds of pills have been turned in.
The initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue because unused and expired medicines that are not disposed of are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse, according to the DEA. In addition, Americans are now advised that disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash poses potential safety and health hazards.
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