West Virginia’s Deadly Meds: Feds Urge Citizens to Ditch Duds on Take Back Day

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The deadly grip of prescription pills has West Virginia in its crosshairs, but U.S. Attorney Will Thompson is urging citizens to drop the habit and dispose of unwanted medication on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Saturday, April 27, 2024.

The DEA’s Take Back Day initiative offers a free, safe, and anonymous way for West Virginians to get rid of prescription drugs susceptible to diversion and abuse. Dozens of collection sites have been announced throughout the state, with more information available at www.DEATakeBack.com.

“This may seem like a small, simple step to take, but safely disposing of prescription drugs can go a long way in preventing tragic outcomes,” Thompson said.

The opioid epidemic has ravaged the United States, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake. In West Virginia, the statistics are staggering: overdose rates continue to climb, and the state’s rural communities are hit hardest. DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day reflects its commitment to Americans’ safety and health, encouraging the public to remove unneeded medications from their homes as a measure of preventing medication misuse and opioid addiction.

For more than a decade, the DEA’s Take Back Day has helped Americans easily rid their homes of unwanted medications – those that are old, unwanted, or expired – that too often become a gateway to addiction. Working in close partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,950 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain sealed in their original container with the cap tightly sealed to prevent leakage. By participating in Take Back Day, West Virginians can play a crucial role in reducing the flow of deadly prescription pills into their communities.

The stakes are high, but so is the potential for change. By taking the simple step of disposing of unwanted medications, West Virginians can help break the cycle of addiction and save lives. So mark your calendars for April 27, 2024, and join the fight against prescription pill abuse.

For more information, visit www.DEATakeBack.com or check with your local law enforcement agency for collection sites in your area.