Drug Take Back Day 2019

Unused, unwanted, or expired medications that remain in the home are highly susceptible to misuse. Such medications, especially controlled prescription drugs such as painkillers, tranquilizers and stimulants pose a serious risk of abuse, accidental poisonings, and environmental damage.

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), more people started down the path of addiction through the misuse of opioid prescription drugs, and each year higher amounts of opioids are being turned in at these events.

Prescription drug take back events such as this address vital public safety and public health issues by providing residents with a convenient, anonymous way to safely dispose of expired, unwanted, or unused medicines. By properly disposing of this medication, we can reduce these risks and live a safer, healthier life.

The event is taking place Saturday, October 26, at the Kaiser Permanente Bellflower Medical Offices from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.