Delaware’s Drug Take-Back Day brought in 9% more unused or out-of-date prescription medicine in April than it did last fall.
The amount of prescription drugs turned in during Delaware’s spring Drug Take-Back day was up 9% this year.
The event held April 22 brought in 4,629 pounds of unused or expired medication from 22 locations, compared to last fall’s 4,200 pounds.
The event, sponsored nationally by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and handled locally by the Delaware Division of Public Health, is designed to help curb drug addictions by getting medicines out of homes and into the trash to prevent them from being stolen or misused.
Since 2010 Delaware has collected 114,470 pounds of medication.
In additon to drugs, this year’s event included ways to dispose of needles and sharpes at the Laurel, Middletown, Milton and Wilmington police departments. More than 119 pounds of those were collected and will be delivered to incinerators to avoid accidents.
Permanent medicine drop-off locations are available year-round. DPH and community partners also distribute Deterra bags (medication deactivation bags) to use at home. For more information, go here.
If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction in Delaware, call DHSS’ 24/7 Crisis Hotline to be connected to treatment and recovery options.
In New Castle County, call 1-800-652-2929. Or in Kent and Sussex counties, call 1-800-345-6785.
For free 24/7 counseling, coaching and support, as well as links to mental health, addiction, and crisis services call the Delaware Hope Line at 833-9-HOPEDE.
To search online for treatment and recovery services in Delaware or nearby states, visit HelpIsHereDE.com.
