National drug take back day

ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – National Drug Take-Back Day is this Saturday, Oct. 27, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Law enforcement agencies across St. Louis County are hosting medication disposal sites for the public to safely dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted medications. Controlled substances, including prescription painkillers or opioids, can be disposed of at any of the take-back sites.

Disposal of medication is free and anonymous, no questions asked. Pills or patches can be dropped off at any of the disposal sites. Liquids, needles, or sharps cannot be accepted. Liquids can be safely disposed of by using medication disposal bags or powder or mixing with an unpleasant substance (kitty litter, coffee grounds, soil, or sawdust). Sharps or needles can be safely disposed of by placing in a hard-sided container and labeling as “Infection Waste,” “Biohazard Waste,” or “Sharps/Needles Inside” before placing in the trash.

Safe disposal of medications is a public health and public safety priority. Proper disposal reduces the amount of medications that can be misused, abused, or diverted. Medicines should not be flushed or thrown in the trash but should be disposed of using medication disposal bags, national take-back sites, or year-round disposal locations.

“The opioid epidemic is greatly impacting our community, and the majority of those struggling with opioid use disorder or addiction start with prescription medications,” County Executive Steve Stenger said. “Safe medication disposal is one important action to help prevent misuse or abuse.”

The St. Louis County Police Department is hosting 12 medication disposal sites on Saturday listed here. A complete list of medication disposal sites can be found at: www.DEATakeBack.com. For year-round medication disposal sites, visit: www.stlcop.edu/community/meddisposal or contact education.doh@stlouisco.com for assistance.

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