Record Four Tons Of Unwanted Medications Collected In Montco

NORRISTOWN, PA — A record amount of unwanted medications were collected in Montgomery County during Drug Take Back Day this past weekend.

Nearly four tons of drugs were collected altogether: a total of 7,789.42 pounds, authorities said.

Authorities tab Drug Take Back Days as vital in preventing addiction and overdoses, as many drug users first become hooked on opioids due to expired medications which linger in cabinets long after their shelf life.

In addition, holding an official Take Back Day allows residents to dispose of medications in a safe way. Many people flush toxic medications down the toilet, which is environmentally destructive to the water supply.

DA Kevin Steele called the record-breaking event, which was held at police stations around the county, an "overwhelming success."

"Residents are understanding the need to get these drugs out of their homes and disposed of properly," he said. "We thank our residents for doing their part."

The next Take Back Day will be held in April 2018. In the meantime, there are 51 permanent Prescription Drug Disposal boxes in the county. For a complete list of locations, see here.

Image via Montgomery County District Attorney's Office