The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that this upcoming Saturday, April 27, 2023, is National Drug Take Back Day. Attorney General Josh Kaul emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “Cleaning out your medicine cabinet to get rid of unused and unwanted medications can help with the fight against the opioid epidemic.” Wisconsinites are encouraged to participate in the more than 135 events planned across the state, in collaboration with over 248 participating law enforcement agencies.
The initiative aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of unwanted medications, while also raising awareness about the potential abuse and consequences of improper storage and disposal of these drugs. It is highlighted that unused or expired medicine should never be flushed or poured down the drain, as water reclamation facilities are not equipped to remove all pharmaceuticals, leading to trace amounts showing up in rivers and lakes.
To locate a Drug Take Back location in Wisconsin, individuals are directed to visit the website provided by the Department of Health Services. The success of Drug Take Back Day is dependent on the support and collaboration of various organizations and agencies, including the DEA, Fuchs Trucking, Covanta Energy, Wisconsin State Patrol, and several local law enforcement agencies.
Participants are reminded of the guidelines for the event, including the acceptable items for disposal such as prescription and over-the-counter medications, pet medications, and vape pens. Illegal drugs, needles, bio-hazardous materials, and household hazardous waste are among the items not permitted for disposal during the event.
Solid, non-liquid medications should be placed in clear sealable plastic bags, while liquids, creams, and sprays must be in their original packaging to be accepted. It is important to note that illicit substances such as marijuana or methamphetamine should not be included in the collection containers during Drug Take Back Day.
The collaborative efforts of the Wisconsin DOJ, DEA, and various other agencies aim to provide a valuable opportunity for Wisconsinites to safely and responsibly dispose of unwanted medications, contributing to the overall efforts in combating the opioid epidemic.