Broome County to Participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

Aug 22, 2020
Treatments

Welcome to Broome County's page on the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day! As a part of our commitment to the health and well-being of our community, we are excited to announce that Broome County will be participating in this nationwide event, allowing individuals to safely dispose of unused or expired medications.

Why is Prescription Drug Take Back Day important?

Prescription drug abuse has become a significant public health concern across the nation. Unused or expired medications, if not properly disposed of, can pose various risks to individuals and the environment. They may end up in the wrong hands, leading to misuse or even addiction. In some cases, improper disposal can contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife. By participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, we aim to mitigate these risks and ensure the safe disposal of medications.

How does Prescription Drug Take Back Day work?

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe and convenient way for individuals to dispose of their unwanted medications. On this designated day, we set up collection sites throughout Broome County where you can drop off your unused or expired prescription drugs. Trained professionals will be present to collect the medications and ensure their proper disposal.

What types of medications can I bring?

You can bring any unused or expired prescription medications to one of our collection sites. This includes commonly prescribed drugs such as painkillers, sedatives, stimulants, and other controlled substances. We ask that you do not bring illegal drugs, syringes, or other medical waste. This event is specifically for the safe disposal of prescription medications.

How can I find a collection site near me?

Locating a collection site near you is easy! Simply visit our website and use our interactive map to find the nearest drop-off location. We have strategically placed collection sites throughout Broome County to ensure accessibility for all residents.

What happens to the collected medications?

Once the medications are collected, they are securely transported to a licensed disposal facility. These facilities adhere to strict regulations for the proper disposal of pharmaceutical waste, ensuring that the medications are safely and environmentally responsibly destroyed.

How can I keep my medications safe at home?

It is essential to practice proper medication storage and disposal at home to prevent accidental misuse or unauthorized access to your prescription drugs. To ensure the safety of your family and community, we recommend the following:

  • Keep medications in their original containers with the labels intact, including the prescribed dosage and your name.
  • Store medications in a secure and locked cabinet or drawer, out of reach of children or pets.
  • Do not share medications with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or drain, as this can contaminate water supplies.
  • Do not throw medications in the trash, unless specific disposal instructions allow it.

Final Thoughts

Participating in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day shows our commitment to the well-being of our community. By safely disposing of unused or expired medications, we are taking positive steps towards preventing substance abuse and protecting the environment. Join us in this important initiative and make a difference!

Galen Wickstrom
Great initiative!
Oct 15, 2023