United States Drug Enforcement Administration

WASHINGTON – On Oct. 26, DEA and over 4,400 law enforcement partners collected nearly 630,000 pounds of unused medications at 4,600 locations nationwide. This effort to empty medicine cabinets helps to prevent drug misuse before it starts.

Locally, the DEA Washington Division, which includes the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia collected 26,549 pounds between 295 locations. 

Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Division, commented that “We sincerely appreciate the dedication and effort demonstrated by our local partners in successfully establishing and managing collection sites in our region during the recent Take Back Day. By pooling our resources, we are increasingly reaching diverse communities and making significant strides toward fostering a safer and healthier environment for all. Take Back is a community event. The responsible disposal of controlled prescription drugs is a vital step in preventing their misuse or potential distribution to individuals who may engage in illegal activities.”

Since its inception, DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has removed nearly 19.2 million pounds of unneeded medications from communities across our country. 

According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the majority of people who misuse prescription medication for a non-medical purpose got that medication from a family member or friend. 

DEA continues to expand opportunities to make safe disposal of medications more accessible nationwide. There are nearly 17,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses that offer safe medication disposal every single day of the year. In addition, many police departments also provide permanent drop boxes. To find a year-round drop off location, visit Every Day is Take Back Day | DEA.gov.

 Complete results for DEA’s fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day are available at www.deaTakeBack.com.                                                                  

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