Drug Take Back Day on Oct. 26: how to dispose of unwanted medication
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) - Saturday is National Drug Take Back Day, where several local pharmacies, police departments and organizations are providing drop-off locations across central Ohio for those wanting to get rid of unwanted prescription medication.
Held by the Drug Enforcement Administration twice a year, collection areas are helping those in the community who want to safely dispose of their prescription medicine. Brian Mulcahy, the assistant special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration in Columbus, said many areas will be open for drop-offs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
"It's a free, anonymous opportunity for folks to clear out those medicine cabinets," Mulcahy said. "Nationwide, we have over 4,000 locations for drop offs. Right here in Franklin County and the Columbus metro area, we have 22 participating locations."
All prescription medications will be accepted including liquids, as long as they are sealed in the original containers, according to Mulcahy. Sharps or needles will not be accepted at drop off locations.
"We know that misuse of prescription drugs is often a gateway to addiction," Mulcahy said. "We know every year there's thousands of emergency phone calls to Poison Control centers for children who take medications that aren't prescribed to them. It's a public health and public safety issue, and we're encouraging people to participate."
Over the last 15 years, Mulcahy said the DEA has collected over 300 tons of prescription medication. Below is a map with several drop-off locations participating in Drug Take Back Day.
To find additional drop-off locations, follow this link.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, help is available.