South Central Public Health District Announces DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
Event will take place from 10 am-2 pm this Saturday, April 27th
SOUTH CENTRAL IDAHO – CDC data shows half of prescription drug abusers over the age of 12 get them from friends and family. Don’t be an accidental drug dealer. Safely throw out old and unused medications this Saturday during National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day.
“Prescription drug abuse is on the rise in Idaho,” said MaryAnn Doshier, South Central Public Health Education Specialist. “It isn’t uncommon for people addicted to prescription drugs to dig through medicine cabinets while visiting friends and family. Help them battle their addiction by removing any chance they have of getting a fix from your old meds.”
Last fall Americans turned in nearly 460 tons (more than 900,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at more than 5,800 sites operated by the DEA and almost 4,800 of its state and local law enforcement partners. Overall, in its 16 previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in almost 11 million pounds—nearly 5,500 tons—of pills.
“Getting rid of your unused prescription drugs keeps your loved ones safe, and keep you from becoming an accidental dealer,” Doshier said.
On Saturday, April 27th, agencies across South Central Idaho will host a drop off box. Anyone, of any age, can drop off old medications there safely. Find a full list of locations at phd5.idaho.gov.
While using prescription drugs, it is important to keep them in a locked container to prevent theft. When it is time to throw out unused medication:
- Take drugs out of original containers.
- Mix drugs with used wet coffee grounds or cat litter.
- Remember to conceal or remove personal information, including the RX number, from empty container so no one can duplicate the prescription.
Learn more about prescription drug abuse: https://www.phd5.idaho.gov/Opioid/