National Take-Back Initiative

This Saturday between 10:00 a.m.and 2:00 p.m., the DEA is issuing another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day that will allow those who have accumulated unwanted and unused prescription drugs to safely dispose of them. Americans who took part in the administration’s last take-back day turned in more than 377,086 pounds (188.5 tons) of unwanted or expired medications for safe and proper disposal at the 5,327 sites that were available nationwide. The DEA, with the help of law enforcement and community partners, has removed a total of 995,185 pounds (498.5 tons) of medication from circulation in the three prior take-back days over the past 13 months. “With the continued support and hard work of our more than 3,945 state, local and tribal law enforcement and community partners, these three events have dramatically reduced the risk of prescription drug diversion and abuse, and increased awareness of this critical public health issue,” says DEA Administrator Michele Leonhart. To find a local collection site, click here.