DEA provides Rx drug take back locations nationwide

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has added a National Prescription Drug Take Back Locator to help consumers find the sites where they can drop off unused prescription drugs.

The locator was added ahead of National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on September 29 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. After consumers enter their address or zip code, they can find law enforcement collection sites in their area.

Many consumers have already taken part in the DEA's two annual National Prescription Drug Take-Back days. At the last event in April, citizens turned in a record-breaking 552,161 lb or 276 tons of unwanted or expired medications. More than 5,600 take-back sites in 50 states were involved.

Overall, the Take-Back program has removed more than 1.5 million lb of prescription medication from circulation. "While a uniform system of prescription drug disposal is being finalized, we will continue to sponsor these important take-back opportunities as a service in our communities," said DEA Administrator Michele M. Leonhart.

The take-back service is free and anonymous, and no questions are asked, according to the DEA. Take-back sites accept tablets, capsules, and all other solid dosage forms of unwanted medications.