The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will host its 17th annual National Take Back Day Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at designated sites across the nation where individuals can dispose of unwanted, unused and expired medications in a safe and secure location.

Since its inception in 2010, National Take Back Day has resulted in over 10 million pounds of unused medications being collected and properly disposed of.

“Many people don’t realize the risks associated with keeping unused or expired medication in their home medicine cabinets,” Special Agent in Charge Richard Salter, Jr. said. “It happens all too often that a family member or friend will steal one or two pills, maybe even an entire bottle, from the cabinet of a family member or friend. Misusing these medications can lead to accidental overdose, addiction, or untimely death. By safely disposing of these medications, the DEA hopes to reduce the potential misuse and abuse of powerful, addictive opioids.”

The DEA is asking people to look through their homes and those of their elderly friends and family who may have unused, unwanted or expired medications and drop them off at secure sites staffed by local law enforcement partners. To locate a drop off site, visit the DEA Take Back webpage at www.deatakeback.com.

For individuals unable to find a nearby location, consider disposing of medications in a safe alternative way. Remove medicine from its original container and mix it with an undesirable substance such as used coffee grounds or kitty litter. Place the mixture in a sealable bag or other container to prevent the medicine from leaking or breaking out of a garbage bag.

Local, State and Tribal law enforcement agencies who want to partner with DEA and host a Take Back site are encouraged to contact DEA Omaha Division Public Affairs Specialist Emily Murray at Emily.A.Murray@usdoj.gov for more information.

By — Anthony Scott