Washington County Plans Prescription Drug Take-Back Event

Washington County authorities will hold another prescription drug “Take-Back” event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office will host the event in partnership with Washington County Public Health and Environment and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Authorities will collect expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction at the Washington County Government Center, at 14949 62nd St. N., in Stillwater. 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.

“This initiative addresses a vital public safety and public health issue,” reads a release from the sheriff’s office. “Many Americans are not aware that medicines left in homes are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, theft, and abuse. 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. Improperly disposing unused medicine; e.g., flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away, are both potential safety and health hazards.”