United States Attorney Andrew B. Benson has encouraged Maine residents to participate in the upcoming National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, scheduled for Saturday, October 25. The event, organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering an opportunity for individuals to safely dispose of unused prescription medications.
The initiative, now in its sixteenth year, aims to reduce the risk of drug misuse and abuse by providing free and anonymous disposal services at nearly 4,500 drop-off locations across the country. Since its inception, Take Back Day has resulted in the removal of more than 19.8 million pounds of medication through collaboration with local law enforcement agencies.
Collection sites will accept tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs but will not take syringes, sharps, or illicit substances. Liquid medications such as cough syrup should be kept sealed in their original containers with tightly closed caps to prevent leakage.
“I urge all Mainers to take advantage of Drug Take Back Day,” said U.S. Attorney Benson. “Leftover prescription drugs can be abused, stolen or resold. Taking a few minutes to properly dispose of medications you no longer need can save a life.”
Information about nearby collection sites is available at www.DEATakeBack.com.
