Hutchinson Police, DEA to host 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day Saturday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration will join forces Saturday for the 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, offering residents a free and anonymous way to safely dispose of unneeded medications.

The collection event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dillon's Marketplace, 3200 Plaza East Drive. Participants may drop off tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs at no cost and without identification.

Now in its 16th year, the initiative has removed more than 20.4 million pounds — or 10,200 tons — of medication from circulation since its launch, according to the DEA. This year's event is part of a nationwide effort with more than 4,200 drop-off locations across the country.

"Take Back Day offers Americans a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of old, unwanted or expired medications," officials said, noting that the program is designed to prevent drug misuse and abuse before it starts.

Collection sites will not accept syringes, sharps or illicit drugs. Liquid medications such as cough syrup may be accepted if they remain sealed in their original container with the cap tightly secured to prevent leakage.

For more information or to locate a collection site nearby, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.