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WXYZ Editorial: Take advantage of National Prescription DrugTake-Back Day

Posted at 11:08 PM, Apr 27, 2019
and last updated 2019-04-27 23:12:32-04

WXYZ DETROIT — Take advantage of National Prescription Take-Back Day, this Saturday, April 27th. It’s an easy way to get rid of unused or expired medications.

An overwhelming number of homes have old pills and various types of medicine in drawers and cabinets. They can cause great danger to toddlers, teenagers, other adults and pets who may consume them.

An overwhelming number of homes have old pills and various types of medicine in drawers and cabinets. They can cause great danger to toddlers, teenagers, other adults and pets who may consume them.

The misuse of narcotic drugs is also a major and growing problem in America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 130 people die each day form opioid overdoses. Couple that other powerful drugs and the total number of deaths now is more than 6 times higher than in 1999. And sadly, more than half of the people who first abuse prescription drugs get them from friends and relatives, often without their knowledge. Recently, the largest opioid poisoning has been among young children who accidentally get a hold of drugs.

On drug take-back day, law enforcement around the nation have set up locations where you can drop off pills and medicine with no questions asked! Here in the Great Lakes State, the Michigan State Police have several sites posted on our wxyz.com web site.

We’ve also posted detailed and valuable information about how, if needed, you can safely dispose of medicine on your own or where you can take it throughout the year if you miss the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Days. And if you’re wondering what medicines are not accepted at drop-off sites, we list those tips. Finally, and most importantly, read how to protect your identity no matter how you dispose of unused pills and drugs.

For more information, go to:
https://takebackday.dea.gov/
https://www.drugs.com/article/medication-disposal.html

I’m Mike Murri, V.P. & General Manager
Broadcast: April 25 - 28, 2019