Safely Get Rid Of Unwanted Prescription Meds In Avon, Avon Lake

AVON, OH — Avon and Avon Lake residents can safely dispose of their unneeded prescription medications on Saturday during National Drug Take Back Day. The DEA is partnering with local law enforcement across the nation to reduce the number of outdated or unwanted medications on the streets.

“Unused or expired prescription medications are a public safety issue. Far too many times we see a friend or family member’s medicine cabinet unknowingly becomes the source of accidental poisoning, an overdose, or abuse,” said DEA Field Division Special Agent in Charge Keith Martin.

A collection point will be hosted at Avon police station from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will also be a collection site at Avon Lake police station, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Last year, during the fall Drug Take Back Day, Americans turned in 456 tons (912,000 pounds) of prescription drugs. Since the DEA started taking back drugs, more than 12 million pounds of unwanted prescriptions have been turned in.

“Pharmaceutical drugs, particularly controlled substances, taken without a prescription or a practitioner’s supervision can be just as dangerous as taking illicit drugs," Martin said.

Why take advantage of Drug Take Back day?

Americans are now being advised not to flush prescription medicines down the toilet or throw them in the trash, because those disposal methods could pose health and safety hazards. Instead, many police departments offer safe disposal methods for prescriptions.

Additionally, the majority of people who abuse prescription drugs, find their medications in the houses of family and friends.