PORTLAND, Ore. – The medicine cabinet is a gateway. That’s the grim reality facing Oregon families, and this Saturday, October 25th, the DEA and its local partners are offering a chance to slam that door shut. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., nearly 4,500 locations nationwide, including 18 in Oregon, will participate in the 29th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a desperate attempt to stem the tide of prescription drug misuse and overdose.
For sixteen years, this event has been a blunt instrument against a silent epidemic. Old, unwanted, or expired prescription medications – tablets, capsules, patches – are a dangerous liability sitting in homes across the state. They’re a siren song to addicts, a temptation for those vulnerable to substance abuse, and a threat to children who might stumble upon them. The DEA, alongside nearly 4,000 law enforcement partners, is offering a free, anonymous way to get these pills out of circulation.
“Take Back Day provides a safe and anonymous way to properly dispose of expired or unused prescription medications,” stated Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Bradford didn’t mince words, adding, “Unused prescription medication in the home pose serious risks of misuse, addiction, and overdose. We encourage all community members to participate and help reduce the potential for abuse and addiction in our communities.” The sentiment is stark: inaction isn’t an option when lives are on the line.
David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division, hammered home the point. “All too often, drug abuse starts with prescription pills in the family medicine cabinet,” Reames said. “DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day offers an easy way to rid your home of these unwanted and potentially dangerous medicines before they can harm your children or grandchildren. Drop off your unneeded medicine this Saturday and take a step to keep your family safe from drug harm.” It’s a simple proposition: a few minutes of your time could save a life.
The numbers tell a chilling story. Since its inception, Take Back Day has pulled over 19.8 million pounds – that’s 10,000 tons – of potentially lethal medication off the streets and out of homes. But the fight is far from over. While the event is crucial, it’s a temporary fix. Long-term solutions to the opioid crisis and prescription drug abuse remain elusive.
Important details: Collection sites will *not* accept syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs. Liquid medications, like cough syrup, are permitted but must be sealed in their original containers with the caps tightly secured to prevent leaks. For a complete list of Oregon collection sites and more information, visit www.DEATakeBack.com. Don’t wait. Clean out your medicine cabinets and help protect your community. This Saturday, take back control.
Related Federal Cases
Key Facts
- State: Oregon
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking
- Source: Official Source ↗
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