DHSS Press Release

DELAWARE'S NATIONAL PRESCRIPTION DRUG TAKE-BACK EVENT MOST SUCCESSFUL EVER - 7,227 POUNDS OF MEDICINE COLLECTED

DOVER (Sept. 23, 2015) - In its most successful Prescription Drug Take-Back Day event ever, Delaware collected 7,227 pounds of unwanted or expired medicine according to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and the state Division of Public Health (DPH). Held on September 12, this was Delaware's eleventh Drug Take-Back Day since the program began in May 2010. A total of 52,002 pounds of unwanted or expired medicines has now been collected from all eleven events combined.

DPH officials say the increase in collections can be attributed to the cumulative efforts of eight permanent drug collection sites throughout the state, which turned in their medications collected over several months to the DEA on the day of this event.

"We were surprised but extremely pleased to learn the results of this year's Drug Take-Back collection efforts," said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH Director. "This proves that the public is using the permanent collection sites and they are extremely effective methods for getting rid of expired and unwanted medications. We hope to increase the number of these sites in Delaware to make it even easier for our citizens to access."

National studies show that more than 70 percent of people abusing prescription pain relievers obtain them through friends or relatives, or by raiding medicine cabinets. The studies also suggest that twice as many Americans regularly abused prescription drugs than the number who regularly used cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin, and inhalants combined.

"Efforts like the Drug Take-Back Day and the presence of permanent collection containers at police departments across our state are helping to reduce the risk of drug diversion from many homes in Delaware and, likely, helps to save lives," Department of Health and Social Services Secretary Rita Landgraf said. "Unfortunately, in too many homes, we know the risk remains. We know that many individuals, especially young people, begin their experimentation with drugs by diverting leftover pills from the homes of family or friends. Please keep your medications locked away, and when you are finished with them, drop them off at a permanent drug collection location."

The cumulative Delaware Prescription Drug Take-Back Day collections are:

For recommendations on handling unwanted or expired prescription drugs, contact the DEA at 800-882-9539. If you were unable to participate in the Sept. 12 event, you can still dispose of your prescription medication at one of Delaware's eight permanent drug disposal sites. View the list of sites here: www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/pressreleases/2015/medicinedrop-060815.html.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.