Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost's office continued its fight against drug misuse by hosting the eighth Drug Dropoff Day in Montgomery County, managing to haul in 216.6 pounds of unused or expired meds on Saturday. According to a report by the Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost's office, the event held at Miami Valley Fire Station No. 52 saw a steady stream of 75 cars, their drivers handing over pharmaceuticals, including fentanyl patches and oxycodone—underscoring the significance of these collection days.
In a statement obtained by the Ohio Attorney General, Dave Yost's office said, "Our Drug Dropoff Days are all about protecting lives. Every pill collected is one less opportunity for misuse." The initiative, which kicked off in July 2021, has been instrumental in decreasing the chance of prescription drug abuse and environmental hazards caused by improper disposal, with a total of 2,829 pounds of drugs collected to date.
Montgomery County has been a focal point for these efforts, ranking uncomfortably high in opioid overdose deaths, as detailed by the Scientific Committee on Opioid Prevention and Education (SCOPE). The collaboration for the Drug Dropoff Day included partners like the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Ohio Sea Grant, which works to address the ecological impact by preventing these substances from polluting water systems. Traces of pharmaceuticals in drinking water sources pose a concerning risk to human and aquatic life.
Those who missed the opportunity to dispose of their unwanted prescriptions this past Saturday can still contact local law enforcement for assistance. AG Yost’s office emphasizes the importance of following safe storage guidelines and actively engaging in community-wide efforts to ensure the health and safety of Ohioans. Residents can visit their website to gather more information about SCOPE and its ongoing research. The Drug Dropoff Days are a tangible representation of SCOPE’s dedication to combating the opioid crisis through education and action.
