ISP, Federal and Local Government Agencies Collect More Than Eight Tons of Unwanted Medications

Disposed of 16,483 pounds of unused medication

On Saturday, October 26, 2019, Hoosiers participated in the 18^th nationwide “Prescription Drug Take Back Day" by visiting Indiana State Police Posts, locations sponsored by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA) and the Indiana Board of Pharmacy, and other sites across the state.

“Kudos to everyone who helped protect their loved ones from substance misuse by safely disposing a total of over eight tons of medication,” said Indiana Executive Director for Drug Prevention, Treatment and Enforcement Jim McClelland. “We hope more people will take advantage of convenient prescription drop-off locations available year round across Indiana.”

In partnership with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the drug take back initiative seeks to prevent prescription drug abuse and theft through proper disposal of prescription drugs. 88 sites across Indiana partnered with the DEA to collect unused medication.

During the one day event, the DEA reports that Hoosiers safely disposed of 16,483 pounds of unused medication. Collectively the Indiana State Police received 1,488 pounds of unused, expired or unwanted medications for proper disposal. Our partners from the IPLA and the Indiana Board of Pharmacy received 1,125 pounds of prescription medication. 

For more information about the bi-annual "Prescription Drug Take Back Day" or to find year round disposal locations visit https://takebackday.dea.gov/.