WASHINGTON D.C. – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in collaboration with nearly 4,500 law enforcement agencies nationwide, safely collected and disposed of more than 620,000 pounds of unused, unneeded, and expired prescription medications during the 28th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day held last month.
In the Washington Division, which covers the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, the DEA reported collecting 28,063 pounds of medication across 305 collection locations.
Since the launch of the initiative 16 years ago, the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has facilitated the removal of nearly 19.8 million pounds of prescription drugs from homes across the United States, helping prevent misuse and accidental poisoning.
DEA Acting Administrator Robert Murphy thanked law enforcement, state, local, and tribal partners for their ongoing commitment to the initiative.
“For sixteen years you have continued to show up to protect your communities by helping to remove the threat of medications from falling into the wrong hands,” said Murphy. “This program would not be possible without the support of our law enforcement and community partners.”
Special Agent in Charge of the Washington Division, Ibrar A. Mian, also acknowledged the efforts of local agencies, government, and community organizations.
“By joining forces, we’re reaching all sorts of communities and making huge leaps toward a safer, healthier world for everyone,” said Mian. “Responsibly discarding prescription meds is key to stopping misuse and keeping them out of the wrong hands.”
For those who missed the event, the DEA reminds the public that safe disposal options are available year-round at nearly 17,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies nationwide. Permanent collection sites can be located by visiting www.deaTakeBack.com.