Federal Programs

National Drug Take-Back Day is Saturday, September 27

Consumers across the county will have another opportunity to safely and legally dispose of unwanted, unused medications during the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) ninth National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, September 27, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This bi-annual, one-day event provides the public with free, anonymous collection of unwanted and expired medicines.

Information regarding specific Take-Back Event locations, coordinated by the DEA and provided by law enforcement agencies, tribal enforcement partners, and community organizations, can be found using the collection site locator.

Last April, Americans turned in 390 tons (over 780,000 pounds) of prescription drugs at nearly 6,100 sites operated by the DEA and more than 4,400 of its state and local law enforcement partners. When those results are combined with what was collected in its eight previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in over 4.1 million pounds – more than 2,100 tons – of pills.

Visit the National Take-Back Drug Initiative for more information, and click on “Partnership Toolbox” to download event posters, handouts, a customizable press release, and other promotional materials in English and/or Spanish.

Other Helpful Resources:

♦ FDA Guidelines for Proper Medication Disposal
♦ Resources for disposal of unwanted medications in Tennessee, including a list of permanent and temporary disposal sites, by county.

Are you participating in National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day on Saturday, September 27?

TPA is gathering information about the profession’s efforts to ensure medication safety. If you take part in the upcoming National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, please take a moment to briefly tell TPA about your participation: How were you involved? How did people respond? Were you pleased with the turnout? We’re interested in any information you care to provide, and we would appreciate photos, as well!

Thanks!