According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 9.7 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that most drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet. There is also evidence that four out of five new heroin users started abusing prescription opioid pain relievers. These are just some of the reasons why it’s important to know how and where to dispose of unwanted or expired prescription drugs.
Drug Take-Back Programs and Locations
Drug Take-Back Days occur twice per year, on the last Saturday in April and in October. Prescription and over the counter medications are collected by public health and law enforcement. Outside of these dates, please see locations below.
Columbus Locations:
Health & Human Services Building
2100 Comer Avenue
1st Floor – next to security
Monday – Friday
8:00 am to 5:00 pm
Citizen’s Service Center
1st Floor
3111 Citizens Way (Off Macon Road)
Monday – Friday during business hours
If you need to return “sharps”, place in a hard plastic or metal container with a secure lid. Label “SHARPS”. In Muscogee County, call 311 to schedule collection. A Route Supervisor will come to the door to collect them.
How to Dispose of Prescription Drugs at Home
If you are unable to participate in a drug take-back program, or visit a collection location, you may dispose of your drugs at home. Remember, never flush or pour your prescription medications down the drain. Follow these steps:
- Mix the medication with an unappealing substance.
- Place the medication and unappealing substance in a sealed container.
- Throw the container into the household trash.
- Scratch out any personal information that may be listed on pill or drug bottles.