More than five tons of unused medicines were disposed of last week during National Drug Take Back Day, according to Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.
According to a report from the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, officers in Kansas collected 10,574 pounds of medicines at more than 100 locations last Saturday in Kansas.
The law enforcement agencies then turn the drugs over to the DEA, which safely destroys the medications.
“Safe storage and proper disposal are the keys to preventing the accidental or intentional misuse of medications,” Schmidt said. “Kansans continue to recognize the importance of safely disposing of their unused medicines during these semi-annual Drug Take-Back events. I appreciate the leadership of the DEA and our local law enforcement agencies in providing this service for Kansans.”
Kansans have safely destroyed a total of 101,379 pounds of medications in the 12 collection days that have been held beginning in 2010.
Unused prescriptions can be turned in year-round at many local law enforcement locations. Residents may contact their local sheriff’s office or police department for more information.