BOSTON - DEA is holding its 19th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 24. The nationwide event aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs locally, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers.
To find a collection site near you, and for more information, visit www.deatakeback.com. Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.
“Unused prescription drugs are a safety hazard and can contribute to drug misuse and abuse," said United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling. “Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a tool to eliminate a major source of prescription drugs from homes and reduce the hazard they pose to our families and communities in a safe and responsible manner."
“The initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue," said DEA Acting Administrator Timothy Shea. “Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Together with our partners, we are not only holding National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, but offering other ways to dispose of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription medications."
“Our take-back events highlight the problems associated with prescription drug abuse and gives our citizens an opportunity to contribute to the solution," said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “These efforts help remove unwanted, expired and unused prescription pills that can be abused, stolen or resold which helps our continued dedication to combat the prescription pill, fentanyl and heroin epidemic of substance abuse and addiction."
Prescription drugs can be disposed of at any of the 11,000 DEA authorized collectors at any time throughout the year. For more information, visit: https://apps2.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubdispsearch/spring/main?execution=e1s1.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the also provide tips on how to safely dispose of drugs at home for those homebound during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
