Alabama’s Take Back Day removes 3,600 pounds of unused medications

Alabamians safely removed over 3,600 pounds of unneeded and expired medications from their homes during the spring Prescription Drug Take Back Day, helping to prevent drug misuse and protect families and communities.

Held twice a year, the event is part of a nationwide effort to combat the opioid crisis and reduce accidental poisonings and overdoses. On April 26, residents across the state turned in 3,668 pounds of medications for safe disposal.

“By collecting unwanted and expired medications, we’re keeping them out of the hands of children and others who could accidentally or intentionally harm themselves,” said Dr. Mark LeQuire, president of the Medical Association of the State of Alabama. “Take Back Day helps make our communities safer and healthier by ensuring medications are disposed of responsibly.”

Since the initiative began in 2010, Alabama has collected and safely destroyed more than 130,000 pounds of medications, according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

This year’s spring event included 44 drop-off sites statewide, including police stations and pharmacies.

Year-round medication disposal options are available across Alabama at select pharmacies, hospitals and law enforcement agencies.