Northwest Iowa — You’ll have an opportunity this weekend to properly dispose of any expired medications you may have around the house. A number of state and local law enforcement agencies, in cooperation with the Drug Enforcement Agency, will be holding a national “Take Back Day” this Saturday, October 26th.
The official drug takeback sites in our area are at the Osceola, Lyon, and Cherokee counties’ sheriff’s offices and the Spencer Police Department. All of these are actually available basically 24/7/365, not just this Saturday.
Most pharmacies, medical centers, and hospitals in northwest Iowa also have a drug disposal box. Some of them are only available during business hours.
Those are the two main reasons for Prescription Drug Takeback Days. The Drug Enforcement Administration says that the idea is to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs. Plus, flushing drugs or disposing of them in the trash can have unintended adverse effects on plants, animals, and the environment.
The DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps, only pills or patches. The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Experts tell us that when in doubt about the proper disposal of your medicines, ask your pharmacist.
