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By David R. Shorey, East County Program Manager, Institute for Public Strategies
October 6, 2023 (San Diego) -- In the ongoing battle against the opioid epidemic and the environmental hazards of improper medication disposal, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's Drug Take Back Day on October 28 is an essential reminder to East County residents about safely discarding unwanted pills. This initiative, which occurs twice a year, empowers communities nationwide to safely and responsibly dispose of unwanted drugs. It's not just a one-day event that occurs every October and April. It's a call to action that should inspire us to adopt environmentally safe methods for disposing of meds year-round.
East County drop off sites include the La Mesa Police Department (8085 University Ave.), the El Cajon Police Department (100 Civic Center Way), and the Alpine Sheriff’s Station (2751 Alpine Blvd.). These sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Drug Take Back Day has gained significant momentum since its inception. It addresses a pressing issue: the improper disposal of medications. When unused or expired drugs are thrown into the trash or flushed down the toilet, they can contaminate our environment and water supply. Additionally, these drugs can end up in the wrong hands, fueling the opioid crisis and posing severe health risks.
Individuals can take a proactive stance against these issues by participating in Drug Take Back Day. They can safely dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications, with the assurance that these substances won't harm the environment or fall into the wrong hands. The collection sites established in East County and beyond make it convenient for people to contribute to this crucial cause. You don’t have to wait for Drug Take Back Day. It's essential to recognize that safe medication disposal should be a year-round commitment. In addition to participating in the DEA's program, individuals can explore various methods to safely and responsibly dispose of unwanted medications in their homes. For local information, go to San Diego County’s prescription drug drop-off site interactive map.
There are several convenient solutions gaining popularity. Innovative and environmentally friendly ways to dispose of medications at home include: DisposeRX, Pill Terminator, RX Destroyer, Deterra, RX Pill Disposal, Drug Buster and Element MDS (Medication Disposal System). They are easy to use, ensuring that anyone can safely dispose of medications. Additionally, they provide a practical and cost-effective way to address medication disposal concerns year-round, not just on designated take-back days. An added bonus is that they prevent medications from ending up in our water systems, safeguarding our environment.
Other alternative environmentally safe methods include prepaid mail-back envelopes for medication disposal. These programs allow you to send your unwanted medications to a facility that handles proper disposal. Some pharmaceutical companies offer mail-back programs for their specific medications. Contact the manufacturer or visit their website to inquire about their disposal options. The issue of medication disposal begins with individual responsibility.
Stakeholders should work together to promote the safe and responsible disposal of medications. By embracing these methods year-round, we can protect our communities, our environment, and future generations from the dangers of improper medication disposal. It's a responsibility we all share, and it's time for us to take action.
IPS works alongside communities to build power, challenge systems of inequity, protect health and improve quality of life. IPS has a vision for safe, secure, vibrant and healthy communities where everyone can thrive. To learn more about IPS East County, follow us on our social media platforms: IPS East County Facebook, IPS East County Twitter, and East County Youth Coalition Instagram. Our website is at IPSEast.org. Resources and services are available to assist with screening, treatment, and recovery for individuals with a substance use disorder. The Access & Crisis line is open year-round, 24/7 at (888) 724-7240.
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