Drug Enforcement Administration, Opioid Trafficking, USA 2024

Memphis, TN — The Drug Enforcement Administration is launching a full-scale offensive against the opioid epidemic with its 17th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day set for April 27. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., thousands of collection sites across the country, including Kroger at 7615 Highway 70 in Bartlett, Tennessee, will accept expired, unused, and unwanted prescription medications. The operation, supported by U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, aims to strip homes of dangerous drugs that fuel abuse, theft, and accidental overdose.

Since 2010, the Take Back Day initiative has removed nearly 11 million pounds—over 5,400 tons—of prescription drugs from circulation. Last October alone, the public surrendered 457 tons (914,236 pounds) at more than 5,800 sites nationwide. Law enforcement agencies, including tribal and local partners, will staff approximately 6,000 sites this weekend in a coordinated push to disrupt the invisible pipeline of abuse: the family medicine cabinet.

“Addiction causes a tremendous amount of pain and suffering, not just for those addicted to drugs, but also for their families and friends,” said Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon. “Helping people keep their loved ones safe by disposing of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription medications is just one of many ways that DEA is working to break the cycle of addiction and overdose deaths plaguing this country.”

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant emphasized a comprehensive strategy: “Addressing the opioid crisis in our communities requires prevention, education, treatment, and enforcement. The DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back event allows everyone to participate in prevention and education that promotes public safety.” He urged all West Tennesseans to turn in unused medications, calling it a frontline defense against addiction, injury, and death.

The crisis remains dire. Prescription drug abuse rates in the U.S. are sky-high, with most abusers admitting they obtain pills for free from friends or family. Liquids, needles, and sharps are not accepted at collection sites. The public can locate the nearest drop-off point at www.DEATakeBack.com or by calling 800-882-9539. The service is free and anonymous—no questions asked.

Since its inception, National Take Back Day has become a cornerstone of the federal anti-drug campaign, turning household hazards into seized contraband. With over 10,000 partner agencies involved to date, the DEA continues to treat the medicine cabinet like a crime scene—because too often, that’s exactly where the damage begins.

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