CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston Regional Office announced today the location of collection sites for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. The event provides safe venues for West Virginians to responsibly dispose of prescription drugs. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is on Saturday, October 22, 2016, from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. West Virginians will have the option of visiting several conveniently located sites that are equipped to properly dispose of prescription medication.
“Drug overdose is the leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and opioids are the leading cause of overdoses. Sadly, West Virginia leads the nation in drug overdose deaths,” said United States Attorney Carol Casto. “About 50 percent of opioids used for non-medical purposes come from a prescription. These drugs, often legitimately prescribed, are too readily available for abuse. By taking advantage of Prescription Drug Take Back Day, you can help us eliminate a large portion of the opiates that are available for abuse. Clean out your medicine cabinets, and get rid of unnecessary and dangerous prescription medications – you may be saving a life.”
“We encourage everyone to take a look at your existing medication and anything that is not being used or has expired and take it to your local drop off location and get rid of it,” said Acting Resident Agent in Charge David Gourley of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Charleston Regional Office.
Nearby collection sites can be found by visiting www.dea.gov, clicking on the “Got Drugs?” icon, and searching by zip code, county, city, and state. Another option for locating collection sites is to call 800-882-9529. West Virginians have the option of visiting over 100 sites throughout the state to dispose of prescription drugs. Only pills and other solids, such as patches, can be brought to collection sites – liquids, needles, or other sharps will not be accepted.
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