On Saturday, October 25, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will hold its 29th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in partnership with nearly 4,000 law enforcement agencies across the United States. The event will run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., offering people an opportunity to safely dispose of unneeded prescription medications at almost 4,500 drop-off locations nationwide.
The initiative aims to help Americans remove old, unwanted, or expired medications from their homes to prevent drug misuse and abuse. For sixteen years, the program has provided free and anonymous disposal services for tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs.
In Oregon alone, there will be 18 collection sites available for residents to participate in the event.
Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, stated: “Take Back Day provides a safe and anonymous way to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications. Unused prescription medication in the home pose serious risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose. We encourage all community members to participate and help reduce the potential for abuse and addiction in our communities.”
David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division added: “All too often, drug abuse starts with prescription pills in the family medicine cabinet. DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers an easy way to rid your home of these unwanted and potentially dangerous medicines before they can harm your children or grandchildren. Drop off your unneeded medicine this Saturday and take a step to keep your family safe from drug harm.”
Since its inception, Take Back Day has collected more than 19.8 million pounds (10,000 tons) of medication through partnerships with local law enforcement agencies.
The event does not accept syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs at collection sites. Liquid products like cough syrup should remain sealed in their original containers with caps tightly closed to prevent leakage.
For further details or to locate a nearby collection site visit www.DEATakeBack.com.
