National Prescription Take Back Day: Safe Disposal of Unwanted Medications
Many prescription drug overdoses originate from misuse of medications found in home medicine cabinets, emphasizing the importance of safe disposal. National Prescription Take Back Day, occurring twice yearly, offers a designated opportunity to properly dispose of expired, unused, or unwanted medications. Last October, over 300 tons of medication were collected from nearly 5,000 sites nationwide.
University Hospitals and the Cleveland Clinic are collaborating to host collection efforts throughout Northeast Ohio on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participating UH drug take-back sites will provide free fentanyl test strips and naloxone kits. Naloxone is a life-saving medication that can rapidly reverse opioid overdoses.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the overdose death rate reached a record high of 112,000 in a 12-month period in 2023. Joining the Drug Take-Back Day initiative not only protects individuals from accidental overdoses but also prevents the misuse of prescription drugs.
Other Dangers of Improper Drug Disposal
Improper disposal of unwanted drugs poses risks beyond accidental ingestion or overdoses. Flushing pills can contaminate waterways, and improper disposal methods can release toxic chemicals into the air and soil.
Preparing for Take Back Day
To prepare for Take Back Day, take inventory of your medicine cabinets and gather any unwanted or expired drugs. Ensure pill bottle lids are tightly closed and label the bottles as intended for disposal.
Participating Drop-Off Locations:
– University Hospitals and Cleveland Clinic locations (check websites for specific addresses)
– Southwest General Police Department headquarters, 18697 Bagley Road, Middleburg Heights
– Summa Health locations (check website for specific addresses)
– Walmart and Sam’s Club store and club locations (check websites for participating locations)
For more information on drop-off locations and year-round disposal options, please visit the provided links in the article.
