National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Senator Katherine Clark is encouraging Massachusetts residents to properly and safely dispose of any unused or expired prescription drugs at more than 200 drop-off sites statewide on October 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. as part of the 3rd National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

The Take Back program, coordinated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in cooperation with local police departments, municipal offices, and medical facilities, was started last year in response to the growing need to provide safe ways for people to dispose of their prescription medications. So far, more than 305 tons of prescription drugs have been turned in nationwide at Take Back days held last fall and this past spring. The service is free and anonymous – drugs can be turned in with no questions asked.

“This free service is a great opportunity to dispose of addictive prescription painkillers in a safe way,” said Senator Clark. “I am proud that many locations across the state are participating in this important day dedicated to improving public health and reducing the safety risks associated with prescription drugs.”

Local drop off sites include the Melrose, Malden and Lynnfield Police Stations. In addition, individuals may search for a drop-off-location through the event’s website: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/index.html

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem, particularly among teenagers and young adults. Surveys show that as many teenagers are now experimenting with highly-addictive prescription painkillers as are trying marijuana. The most commonly reported source of these drugs aren’t drug dealers, but home medicine cabinets.

A recent survey of Massachusetts parents conducted by the Partnership at Drugfree.org, a national substance abuse prevention organization, found that 56 percent of households with children fail to dispose of or properly secure prescription pain medications, with one-third of homes keeping the medication in the kitchen.