Another National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is quickly approaching! Gather your unused, unwanted or expired prescription drugs to dispose of safely during the upcoming event.
When: Saturday, October 26, 2024 – 10 am to 2 pm
Where: A comprehensive list of collection sites participating in DEA Take Back Day can be found here.
* Helpful tip: The DEA does not currently take back needles, sharps or liquids of any kind.
What is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day?
According to the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), “The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.”
When Does National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Occur?
The DEA hosts National Prescription Drug Take Back Days twice a year (in April and October).
Why is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day important?
Most people who misuse prescription opioids get them for free from a friend or relative (SAMHSA). In fact, a majority of teens who have misused pain relievers report that they got them from family and friends, including their home’s medicine cabinets (SAMHSA). A common misperception among youth is that prescription drugs are safer or less harmful than other drugs. The best way to ensure your prescription drugs are not used in a way that is unsafe or illegal is to dispose of them.
How can I dispose of my medications if I miss the event?
If you miss the DEA’s Prescription Drug Take Back Day, you can also locate a year-round drug disposal collection site near you. A list of year-round disposal locations in Gwinnett, Newton, Rockdale and DeKalb can be found here. A nationwide search tool provided by the DEA is also available here. In addition, there are safe ways to dispose of your medications at home, which are detailed here.
How do I help promote National Prescription Drug Take Back Day?
The DEA’s website offers numerous resources to help promote the events, such as a Collection Site Locator, PSAs, links to an informative database on drugs and their effects and a Partnership Toolbox, which contains posters, flyers, shareable graphics and more.
We hope you can attend the upcoming event! If you’re committed to doing your part to prevent prescription drug misuse and abuse, please consider sharing that commitment with us by signing our pledge.