Attorney General encourages Oklahomans to participate in Drug Take Back Day

OKLAHOMA CITY – Attorney General Mike Hunter is encouraging Oklahomans to participate in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, April 27.

The DEA will have multiple location across the state accepting expired or unused prescription drugs between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Locations of convenient drop off sites can be located on the DEA’s website, here: https://takebackday.dea.gov/.

Hunter said the annual event is a good opportunity for Oklahomans to responsibly dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs.

“A 2017 study showed more than 6 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs,” Hunter said. “The study also showed the majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family members and friends. Those drugs often came from a home medicine cabinet. The DEA’s National Take Back Day is a great reminder for Oklahomans to responsibly rid their homes of unused or expired medication, which will prevent misuse and other potentially dangerous or deadly consequences.”

For individuals who cannot take part in Saturday’s event, the attorney general supports and recommends Oklahomans take advantage of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics’ Safe Trips for Scripts Drug Prevention Program. The prescription drug take-back program is available year-round.  A drop box is located at the Ponca City Police Department at 200 East Oklahoma Avenue. Call (580) 767-0370 for more information.

In 2018, the OBN disposed of over 25,000 pounds of unused prescription drugs thanks to the program.

Created in 2010, the DEA’s National Take Back Day promotes a safe, convenient and responsible means for individuals to dispose of prescription drugs. The day also aims to educate the public about the potential for the abuse of unused or expired drugs.