This weekend marks an important event for those looking to safely dispose of prescription drugs they no longer need. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is teaming up with law enforcement partners across the nation to facilitate the 29th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The event is set to take place this Saturday, October 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will be held at a variety of locations nationwide.
With the enduring goal of preventing medication misuse and abuse, Take Back Day provides an opportunity for individuals to clear out their medicine cabinets of outdated or unwanted prescription drugs, free of charge and no questions asked. The initiative has been part of the DEA's efforts for the past sixteen years, and to date, has successfully removed in excess of 19.8 million pounds (roughly 10,000 tons) of medicine from potential misuse. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon, in Oregon alone, there will be 18 collection sites participating in the take-back program.
In remarks shared by the office, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon Scott E. Bradford highlighted the importance of the initiative. "Take Back Day provides a safe and anonymous way to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications," Bradford said. "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."
While the event focuses primarily on solid forms of medication, such as pills and capsules, participants should note that certain types of waste are not accepted. Collection sites will not take in syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs, and liquids must be in their original, tightly sealed containers to prevent spillage. Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division, David F. Reames emphasized the pervasive issue of drug abuse, often beginning with accessible medication in people's homes. "All too often, drug abuse starts with prescription pills in the family medicine cabinet," Reames told the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Oregon. "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."
