Drug Take Back Day this Saturday

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) semi-annual Drug Take Back Day will be held Saturday, April 27, 2024.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a majority of individuals who misuse prescription drugs obtain them from friends or family members.  Unused, expired, and otherwise unwanted medicines too often linger in our medicine cabinets, and disposing of them can help ensure they don’t fall into the wrong hands. 

Fortunately, there are FREE options in communities around Missouri, including in my district, to ensure these unwanted medicines can be disposed of safely and securely.  Make plans today to participate in 

“Drug Take Back Day plays a crucial role in safeguarding our neighborhoods from the dangers of unused or expired medications,” says Kansas City-area Missouri State Rep Doug Richey.  “This nationwide event provides an invaluable opportunity for individuals to dispose of prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines safely and responsibly, no questions asked.”

Can’t make it on April 27?  There are free options in or near our community year-round.  In fact, according to the Pharmaceutical Product Stewardship Work Group (PPSWG), a nonprofit association of pharmaceutical producers, Missouri has 413 locations statewide.  PPSWG supports MyOldMeds.com, a website that you can use to easily identify the takeback kiosk – commonly located in pharmacies, government centers, and law enforcement agencies – that is nearest you.  You’ll just need your zip code. 

Whether you plan to gather and dispose of your unused or expired medicines on DEA Take Back Day on April 27 or any other time throughout the year, remember that you can always find a kiosk near you by searching MyOldMeds.com.