Hundreds of thousands of pounds of unused medications have now been disposed of properly, thanks to the DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. During the Oct. 26 event, the DEA and more than 4,400 law enforcement partners collected nearly 630,000 pounds of unused medications at 4,600 locations nationwide. The initiative aims to reduce prescription drug misuse, which often begins with easy access to medications in the home.
“Prescription medication misuse can lead to accidental drug poisonings, and that’s why we are passionate about hosting these events,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter.
A report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration highlights the importance of this effort, revealing that most people who misuse prescription drugs for non-medical purposes obtain them from family or friends.
Texas led the nation in collections, bringing in 48,510 pounds of medications, followed by Ohio with nearly 41,000 pounds. North Dakota was the only state that didn’t participate in this year’s Take Back Day. However, it’s the only state in the nation operating free, year-round, state-wide prescription drug disposal programs at local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies.
The DEA is also working to expand safe medication disposal programs. Nearly 17,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses offer disposal locations throughout the year. In addition, many police departments provide permanent drop boxes. To find a year-round drop-off location, visit Every Day is Take Back Day | DEA.gov.
Complete results for DEA’s Oct. Take Back Day are available at Take Back Day.