Multiple law enforcement agencies to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Multiple law enforcement agencies in Mid-Missouri are participating in National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, with various locations open for those looking to safely get rid of medications.
According to the FDA, having unused and expired medicines in homes poses a large safety concern. According to Poison Control, pain medications, cardiovascular drugs and other prescription medications make up a little over 36% of adult poison control calls.
The Missouri Department of Mental Health says some medications deteriorate over time and having similar pill bottles with expired medications together can increase the risk of drug misuse.
In Cooper County, the Booneville Police Department will hold its Take Back event at the Boonville Fire Department on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Jefferson City Police Department will also host an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Jefferson City Police Department.
The Boone County Sheriff's Department hosted two Drug Take Back events on Friday and will have multiple drug collection sites open on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Participating locations in Boone County:
- Kilgore's Pharmacy - Ashland
- Rock Bridge High School
- Hickman Sr. High School
- Hallsville Police Department
- Centralia Police Department
All Drug Take Back events accept both liquid and tablet medications. Used needles are not allowed. The Jefferson City Police Department is asking those dropping off medication to remove any identifying labels from the containers before throwing them away.
Anyone unable to attend Saturday's events is encouraged to use the City of Columbia's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program. Some Walgreens also have locations with a medication disposal kiosk.
Additionally, the FDA has a Flush List of medications that are allowed to be flushed down the drain.
For any syringes or sharp items, the Missouri Department of Health recommends contacting a local public health agency for proper disposal.
