Nationwide Drug Take-Back Day Saturday is Chance to Safely Dispose of Meds

Safe disposal of unused and expired medications is the goal of Saturday’s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, and local dropoff points are available.

The Fairfax County Police Department is encouraging anyone looking to get rid of prescription drugs to visit a district station between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday. (The Reston District Station is located at 1801 Cameron Glen Drive.) Only pills and liquids will be accepted; no needles or pressurized canisters.

According to FCPD, safe handling of unused and expired medication prevents accidental poisoning, protects the environment and prevents drug abuse.

The Herndon Police Department (397 Herndon Parkway) is also asking residents to bring their medication in Saturday, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., for proper disposal. Needles and liquids cannot be accepted by HPD.

The Drug Enforcement Administration has been promoting Drug Take-Back Day for 12 years. It says studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

“Prescription drug abuse is a huge problem and this is a great opportunity for folks around the country to help reduce the threat,” Acting DEA Administrator Chuck Rosenberg has said. “Please clean out your medicine cabinet and make your home safe from drug theft and abuse.”

There are many other collection sites available Saturday. Search the DEA website for more locations.

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