The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is encouraging Iowans to safely dispose of unused or expired medications during the 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 25. The event is organized nationwide by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in partnership with local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies. Collection sites across Iowa will accept medications from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that Saturday. The program provides a safe, convenient, and anonymous way to dispose of unwanted medicines and also raises awareness about the dangers of opioid misuse and other prescription drug risks. During the most recent event this past October, Iowans turned in more than 7,000 pounds of medications. Since the program began, residents have safely disposed of more than 114 tons of unused medicines. Collection sites will take tablets, capsules, patches, and other medications; however, syringes, sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. Any liquid products should be turned in with the original, securely sealed container. Outside of the specified Drug Take Back Days, over 400 permanent collection sites are available in Iowa year-round. Find a collection site near you, permanent or otherwise, using the links included below.
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https://www.dea.gov/takebackday
