Phoenix, Ariz. – DEA and local law enforcement partners collected 5,367 pounds of unneeded medications in Arizona during the 26th National Take Back Day on October 26, 2024.
Nationwide, 630,000 pounds of unneeded medications were turned in at 4,600 locations. Since its inception, DEA’s National Prescription Take Back Day has removed nearly 19.2 million pounds of unneeded medications from communities across our country. This effort to empty medicine cabinets helps to prevent drug misuse before it starts.
According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the majority of people who misuse prescription medication for a non-medical purpose got that medication from a family member or friend.
DEA continues to expand opportunities to make safe disposal of medications more accessible nationwide. There are nearly 17,000 pharmacies, hospitals, and businesses that offer safe medication disposal every single day of the year. In addition, many police departments also provide permanent drop boxes. To find a year-round drop off location, visit Every Day is Take Back Day | DEA.gov.
Complete results for DEA’s fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day are available at Take Back Day