DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Is Saturday

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — After collecting and destroying 900,000 pounds—450 tons—of unused prescription drugs last April, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is continuing its efforts to take back unused, unwanted and expired prescription medications. The DEA invites the public to bring their potentially dangerous, unwanted medicines to one of nearly 5,000 collection sites around the country that are manned by more than 4,000 of DEA’s tribal and local law enforcement partners.

The public can find a nearby collection site by visiting www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539. This service is free of charge, with no questions asked.

“The abuse of opioids and prescription drugs is at an all-time high in our country, and the effect is devastating, not only on the users, but on their families, friends, and communities,” U.S. Attorney Talbert stated. “Young people are particularly at risk, as they can gain easy access to unused and addictive prescription drugs inside the home. I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this safe and easy way to dispose of unused prescription drugs.”

“America is in the midst of a prescription drug crisis and the home medicine cabinet is a major source. Let’s work together to help put an end to this epidemic by cleaning out that cabinet and disposing of unwanted medication at a take back location,” stated DEA Special Agent in Charge John J. Martin.

Overdoses from prescription opioids are the driving factor in the 15-year increase in opioid overdose deaths. The removal from homes of unwanted prescription pills that can be abused, stolen or resold is an easy way to help fight the epidemic of substance abuse and addiction.

According to the DEA, in the previous 13 take-back events, approximately 8.1 million pounds or 4,050 tons of unused medication were collected by DEA and its partners.