National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: Safe Disposal for Stronger Communities

DEA’s national initiative takes place on October 25

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities’ Office of Substance Use Services (OSUS) is joining the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in promoting National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 25. Take Back Day is a national initiative to provide safe, convenient and responsible ways to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.

Through Take Back Day, South Carolinians can take a simple yet powerful step to protect their families and communities by cleaning out their medicine cabinets and safely discarding unused drugs.

“Proper medication disposal saves lives,” said Michelle Nienhius, Manager of Prevention & Intervention Services at OSUS. “Every bottle or pill turned in on Take Back Day reduces the risk of misuse, accidental poisoning and overdose. Safe disposal is prevention in action.”

DEA Take Back Day will happen throughout South Carolina, with law enforcement agencies, pharmacies and community organizations serving as collection partners. Residents can find their nearest Take Back Day drop-off site at www.dea.gov/takebackday, or visit www.justplainkillers.com/drug-safety for an interactive map of disposal locations statewide that are available year-round.

Accepted items typically include prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and pet prescriptions. Needles, sharps and liquids are generally not accepted. Participants are encouraged to check specific site guidelines before attending.

Unused or expired medications left unsecured in homes can pose significant risks, including:

• Misuse and addiction: A majority of people who misuse prescription drugs report getting them from friends or family.
• Accidental ingestion: Children and pets are especially vulnerable to serious harm or fatal overdose.
• Environmental impact: Flushing or throwing away medications can contaminate soil and water supplies.

By participating in Take Back Day, South Carolinians can help prevent substance misuse, protect loved ones and contribute to a healthier, safer community.