Saturday is the National Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) take-back day, where citizens can discard unused prescription medicine.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and anonymous way to dispose of unused or expired medications, while raising awareness about the risks of opioid misuse and the dangers associated with other prescription drugs. Twice a year, the DEA partners with local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies to collect leftover prescription and over-the-counter medications safely and responsibly. During the collection in October, Iowans turned in over 7,071 pounds of unneeded medicine. To date, Iowans have safely disposed of over 114 tons of unused medications at these events.
Saturday’s events are 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at designated sites across Iowa. The DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should be securely sealed in their original container. Syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs are not collected. As part of the National Prescription Drug Take Back program, the DEA also collects vaping devices and e-cigarettes with their batteries removed.
Local collection sites below:
Marion County Sheriff’s Office
Pella Police Department
Warren County Sheriff’s Office
