April 30 Is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Saturday, April 30, is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a day during which hundreds of locations throughout California will be accepting and properly disposing of unused prescription drugs, including controlled substances. Proper disposal of unused prescription drugs helps prevent diversion and misuse associated with these medications.
This one-day event will provide patients with free, anonymous collection of unwanted and expired medicines. During previous Take Back events over the past five years, 5.5 million pounds — more than 2,750 tons — of drugs were collected nationwide.
In addition to providing a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposal, the event also aims to educate the general public about the potential for abuse of these medications.
A significant component of the prescription drug abuse and diversion problem stems from misuse of unused drugs. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, over 71% of prescription pain medications are obtained from family and friends, and 5% took the medication from a friend or relative without asking.
Physicians can take action by encouraging their patients to participate in Take Back Day. To find a collection site near your practice, click here.
CMA has also produced a flyer to educate patients about proper disposal of prescription medication and National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, which can be placed in offices and waiting rooms — click here to download the flyer.