DEA Wants Your Old Prescription Meds

Thursday, September 23, 2010

Having unused or expired prescription in your medicine cabinet might seem innocuous, but the national Drug Enforcement Administration warns that it can be trouble and they’re ready to take it off your hands.

On Saturday, Sept. 25, the DEA is collaborating with law enforcement officials across the country for the first-ever “National Take-Back Initiative” to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances by allowing folks to bring in expired or unused pharmaceuticals for destruction.

Regarding National Take-Back Day, Governor Bob McDonnell said, “Drug abuse is directly related to increased crime rates, overdose deaths and emergency room visits.

“In Virginia, drug deaths are comparable to the number of traffic fatalities each year. We want to change the equation by taking preventative steps, including encouraging Virginians to get rid of old medications. People should not hold on to expired or unused medications, particularly in homes with children, teens and seniors which are especially vulnerable to this danger.”

In the Triangle, as in other parts of the country, prescription drug abuse is on the rise. According to a presentation give by the Historic Triangle Substance Abuse Coalition last year, prescription drug death rates are double those of illegal drug deaths in the Tidewater region (the Historic Triangle falls here).

In 1999, there were fewer than 200 deaths in the region due to prescription drugs, but by 2008 the number had risen to over 450.

The Williamsburg-James City County 2008 Community That Cares survey released earlier this year showed prescription pain relievers are abused almost as much as marijuana.

One of the best ways to keep medications from being abused is to dispose of what you don’t need, according to the DEA’s press release.

Any prescription or over-the-counter medications will be accepted for disposal Saturday, and may be kept in original packaging. The program is anonymous and free. Injectables and needles will not be accepted.

Triangle residents can bring their drugs to Williamsburg/James City County Recreation Center on Longhill Road between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Visit the website for details.