National Drug Take Back Day: Promoting Safe Medication Disposal

This article is courtesy of MPC intern, Bianca Jackson.

What is National Drug Take Back Day?

National Drug Take Back Day is a public safety event that happens in both April and October in the United States. For 2026, the designated days are April 25th and October 24th. This event allows people to dispose of their unused, expired, or unwanted medication in a safe manner. It helps prevent the misuse of prescription drugs and protects communities from the dangers of medications not being used the right way.

The organization this event is organized by is the Drug Enforcement Administration, also known as the D.E.A. It takes place at designated sites across the country like pharmacies, hospitals, as well as community centers. If you’re not exactly sure where to go for Drug Take Back Day, you can enter your information in the DEA website to help you find a drop-off location: https://www.dea.gov/takebackday