National Prescription Drug Take Back Day runs next Saturday

Idaho’s 6th and 7th Public Health Districts, in collaboration with the Drug Enforcement Administration, law enforcement and other local nonprofit partners, will host National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day next Saturday, April 27th. .

The agencies will accept “unused, unwanted, or expired prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and veterinary drugs,” according to a press release. “Vape pens, cartridges, and other electronic cigarette devices (without batteries) may be brought in as well. Needles will not be accepted.”

The 26th annual event raises awareness and provides an opportunity to dispose of household medicines that, if left unattended, may be used inappropriately by children, adolescents and adults.

This initiative aims to address drug abuse in America. In 2022, “14 million Americans will misuse prescription psychotherapeutic drugs” and “40,000 Idahoans ages 12 and older will misuse prescription painkillers,” according to the release.

According to the Idaho Youth Risk Behavior Survey, only 14% of Idaho youth reported using prescription drugs inappropriately in their lives, but “three-quarters of them reported using prescription drugs inappropriately at home. “40% were given drugs by family or friends,” the release states.

Expired medications should not be left in cabinets, thrown in the trash, or flushed down the toilet, as they can harm people and animals and contaminate the environment.

Four drop-off locations in eastern Idaho will be available April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

idaho falls

• Blue Cross of Idaho Office: 3630 South 25th East

Rexburg

• Madison County DMV: 510 North 2nd East
• Walmart Parking: 1450 North 2nd East

Chubbuck

• Chubbuck Police Station: 5160 Yellowstone Avenue

Other year-round medication pickup locations can be found at: www.odp.idaho.gov/prescription-drug-take-back-program.