Oct. 26 marks another Drug Enforcement Administration National Prescription Drug Take Back Day — a nationwide effort that provides a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.
Collection sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Chula Vista Public Works, the National City Police Department, the Coronado Police Station, and the Imperial Beach Sheriff’s Station. There are also year-round sites for drop-off throughout the county as part of the DEA’s “Every Day is Take Back Day” campaign.
In the South Bay, the community plays a vital role in addressing substance misuse and preventing substance use disorders through active participation in this effort. Prescription drugs, particularly opioids, can often be the entry point into substance misuse. When left unused in medicine cabinets, they can pose a risk of being misused and can lead to accidental overdoses.
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 48.5 million Americans aged 12 and older battled a substance use disorder in the past year. The DEA’s Take Back Day is an opportunity for every household in the South Bay to stand against substance misuse by safely disposing of medications that are no longer needed.
This year’s theme is “Empowering Communities to Protect Families from Prescription Drug Misuse,” encouraging residents to participate and help protect their loved ones. The last DEA Drug Take Back Day in April 2024 saw the nationwide collection of more than 335 tons of unused medications.
In San Diego County, 3,668 pounds of drugs were collected by the DEA San Diego Field Office. These numbers represent not just discarded pills, but the prevention of countless potential cases of substance misuse.
Take stock of your medicine cabinet. Look for prescription drugs that are expired, no longer needed, or simply sitting there unused. Common medications like painkillers, antidepressants, and sleep aids are critical to dispose of, as they are often misused.
Take your medicines to a nearby drop-off point. It’s free and anonymous. No questions asked.
There are several benefits to participating in Drug Take Back Day. By removing the temptation of easily accessible prescription drugs, you reduce the chances of misuse by family members or guests in your home.
Flushing medications down the toilet or throwing them in the trash can contaminate water supplies and wildlife. The DEA ensures that all collected drugs are disposed of safely and responsibly. By joining in, you send a message that communities can prevent substance misuse.
And the South Bay can make a difference. Residents have a tradition of civic engagement and community-driven initiatives. We have another opportunity to unite and protect the health of residents.
Whether you are a parent concerned about your children’s future, a senior with old medications, or someone who wants to contribute to a healthier neighborhood, participating in this year’s Drug Take Back Day makes an impact. Together, we can make a difference — one prescription at a time.
Sarah Boyer is the South Bay program manager for the Institute for Public Strategies, which works alongside communities to build power, challenge systems of inequity, protect health and improve quality of life.
