Unused prescriptions can be dropped off Saturday during Drug Take Back Day

FARGO, N.D. (Flag Family Media) - Residents across North Dakota and Minnesota can dispose of unwanted prescription medications Saturday, October 24, during the 31st National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Omaha Field Division is partnering with 128 law enforcement agencies to offer more than 140 collection locations across North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa and Nebraska. Drop-off hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The event provides a safe, anonymous way to dispose of unused, expired and unneeded prescription medications. Sites will accept tablets, capsules, patches and other prescription medications, including liquids securely sealed in their original containers. Syringes, sharps and illicit drugs will not be accepted.

The DEA says disposing of unwanted medications helps prevent misuse and accidental poisonings.

“Now is the time to walk through your home, gather up those unused and expired prescription medications and bring them to a neighborhood Take Back Day collection site,” said Rafael Mattei, acting special agent in charge of the DEA Omaha Field Division.

Mattei also encouraged residents to securely store medications they still need and reminded people to take only prescription medications prescribed for them by a trusted medical professional and filled by a licensed pharmacist.

More than 4,400 collection sites will participate nationwide. Residents can find a nearby location at DEATakeBack.com.

People unable to participate Saturday can use year-round disposal locations at more than 15,300 pharmacies, hospitals and businesses. Many police departments also offer permanent medication drop boxes.