National Drug Take-Back Day – Find a Drop-Off Site Near You
National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is on April 28th this year. It is a day to recognize public health, and public safety, by responsibly disposing of unused, or expired, prescription drugs.
It also aims to educate the public about prescription drug abuse, especially when it comes to opioids. According a 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.4 million Americans abuse controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that a majority were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.
The Drug Enforcement Administration first launched its Take-Back Day in 2010, and since then has collected more than 9 million pounds of medicine from the public.
Many local police stations are drop-off centers for your medications. Remember National Drug Take-Back Day on April 28. It is a safe, convenient and anonymous way to dispose of your prescription medications. For a drop-off center near you, visit The Drug Enforcement Agency.
If you prefer, here are just a few ways you can safely dispose of your medications yourself from the U.S Food and Drug Administration.
- 1
Use Kitty Litter
Mix medicines with an unpalatable substance such as dirt, used coffee grounds, or kitty litter; however, do not crush tablets or capsules first.
- 2
Seal The Bag
Place the mixture in a container like a sealed plastic bag or empty can to prevent the drug from leaking in the garbage.
- 3
Remove Identifiable Info
When disposing of empty prescription bottles, be sure to mark out identifying personal information to make it unreadable. Throw medication in the trash and do not flush down the toilet.
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