Saturday, Oct. 26, is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, an opportunity for people to safely dispose of unused or expired medications.
Drop boxes will be staffed and available between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for take-back events across the country.
The event takes place twice a year to highlight the importance of getting rid of medications that are no longer needed. Proper disposal of prescription and over-the-counter medications in a local drop box helps prevent accidental poisoning and reduces the possibility of medication misuse. It also prevents water pollution and other environmental threats.
In St. Louis County, collection points will be at the sheriff’s offices in Virginia, Hibbing and Ely, and there are dozens more throughout the region.
Visit dea.gov/takebackday to find one near you.
Medications to be disposed of should be brought in in their original containers with any personal identifying information crossed off.
Numerous law enforcement agencies and pharmacies in Northern Minnesota offer secure disposal boxes where medications can be disposed of anonymously year-round.
While these programs are the best way to dispose, transportation and access issues may make it difficult for some.
Contact your county government for more information on other disposal methods, such as a free medication mail-back envelope or a DisposeRx kit.
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