County Authorities to Accept Unused Prescription Drugs April 30

The Washington County Sheriff's Office announced Thursday that it will participate in a voluntary prescription drug "Take-Back" campaign on Saturday, April 30, at the Washington County Government Center, 14949 62nd St. N., in Stillwater.

The sheriff's office will collect potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The site will be located in the main lot at the government center with drive-through access. The service is free and anonymous—no questions asked, according to a release from the sheriff's office.

The initiative addresses a public safety and public health issue, according to the release. It's aimed at preventing misuse, theft and abuse. The sheriff's office reports that prescription drug abuse in the U.S. is increasing, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.

Studies show that that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet, according to the release. Improperly disposing unused medicine; e.g., flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away, are both potential safety and health hazards.

"Please take the time to look through your homes for prescription drugs to take to this event to make our community safer," reads a statement in the release.

The program is being held in partnership with the Washington County Public Health and Environment.