National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, held Oct. 24th, looked a bit different this year, as Bucks County law enforcement officers conducted the first “Drive Up and Drop In” medication collection.
Bucks County surpassed previous collections totals by more than 3,356 pounds, breaking previous records. Collection totals exceeded 14,362 pounds, bringing Bucks County to a total-to-date of 152,697 pounds since 2010, when collections began in the county.
Law enforcement officers collected unneeded or expired over-the-counter, prescription medication and vaping products for safe disposal at 46 sites throughout the county. All medications collected are incinerated outside of the county in a process that is overseen from start to finish by law enforcement.
For those who missed the collection event, they may dispose of unwanted medications and vaping products freely and anonymously at one of the 44 permanent drop-off sites located in police stations and most hospitals throughout Bucks County. In most locations, all medications are accepted, including pills, capsules, ointments, liquids, nasal sprays, inhalers and pet medications.
Needles and illicit drugs are not accepted. Follow safe practices with all medications to prevent accidents and save lives.
These include storing medications properly; taking medications only as prescribed; and disposing of both prescribed and over-the-counter medications by participating in biannual collection events or using a nearby drop box.
Visit bcdac.org to find a local collection site.
