The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) collected 621,348 pounds of unneeded, expired, and unwanted prescription medications during its 28th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 26, 2025.
The nationwide effort, held in partnership with nearly 4,500 law enforcement agencies, aims to prevent drug misuse by removing medications from homes where they could be diverted, misused, or abused. Since the program began 16 years ago, DEA has collected nearly 20 million pounds of prescription drugs.
South Dakotans contributed more than 1,100 pounds to this year’s effort, with drop-off locations across the state, including sites in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, and Pierre.
“We want to thank our state, local, and tribal partners for their continued support of DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day,” said Acting DEA Administrator Robert Murphy. “For sixteen years you have continued to show up to protect your communities by helping to remove the threat of medications from falling into the wrong hands.”
Safe disposal options are available year-round at nearly 17,000 authorized locations including pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies. Many police departments offer permanent drop boxes for secure disposal.
To find a collection site near you, visit the DEA’s Every Day is Take Back Day.
