DEA Drug Take-Back Day Set for This Weekend

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - This Saturday, October 26, the DEA will host another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, offering Parkland residents a safe way to dispose of unwanted or expired medications. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., drop-off locations will be set up, where both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be turned in, no questions asked.

The initiative aims to reduce the risk of prescription drug misuse and prevent environmental contamination from improper disposal. According to the DEA, the majority of misused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from home medicine cabinets. By participating in the Drug Take-Back Day, community members can play a vital role in keeping their households and the community safe.

Local law enforcement agencies are partnering with the DEA to facilitate the event. 

List of drop-off locations:

• Desloge Parkland Pharmacy
• Farmington Police Department
• Fredericktown Parkland Pharmacy

In addition to safeguarding public health, proper disposal helps protect the environment. Flushing medications or throwing them in the trash can lead to chemicals leaching into water supplies. By turning in unused drugs, residents can prevent potential contamination of local water systems.

Accepted items include prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and pet medicines. However, needles, syringes, and illicit drugs will not be accepted. For those who can't make it to the event, permanent drop boxes are available at many local police stations year-round.