BOISE, Idaho — Idahoans will have a chance to safely get rid of unused medication this Saturday as part of the 18th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26 at 38 collection sites around the state.
New this year, the Drug Enforcement Administration will also accept vaping devices and products in addition to unused or expired prescription drugs.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Idaho Bart Davis said in a release that getting rid of unwanted medication keeps it from falling into the wrong hands. The disposal service is free and completely anonymous.
“The widespread prevalence of unused prescription medication is a significant contributor to drug abuse and addiction,” he said in a statement. “National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides an actionable way to rid opioids and other medicines from our nation’s homes. I urge Idahoans to do their part to combat this crisis by going to a collection site and safely disposing of unused, expired, and dangerous prescription medication.”
At the last National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in April, a total of 469 tons of prescription drugs were surrendered at almost 6,300 drop-off sites across the country.
Officials urge people to use the drop-off sites rather than flushing unwanted medication or throwing it in the trash, which can cause health and safety hazards.
To find the collection site nearest to you, visit the DEA's website here.
