Many times, the misuse of prescription drugs begins at home. The number of accidental poisonings and overdoses of these medications is alarmingly high. Misused prescription drugs are usually obtained from family and friends, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
To combat prescription drug misuse, once again this year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is giving you the opportunity to dispose of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The service is free and you may remain anonymous when you drop off your medications.
For the past 18 years, the DEA has taken 11.8 million pounds, or 5,900 tons, of prescription drugs out of circulation with the take back day.
The old methods of disposal of unused medicines–flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash–pose potential safety and health hazards.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska encourages you to take part in the day-long event to safely dispose of any unneeded prescription drugs you may have.
Use this website to find a collection site near you.
