The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that Wisconsin ranked first in the nation for the most prescription medications collected during the spring 2024 Drug Take Back event. A correction to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) data revealed that Wisconsin collected a total of 55,122 pounds of unwanted medications, surpassing previous reports which placed the state second.
“Because of Wisconsinites who safely disposed of their unwanted medications, Wisconsin’s remarkable success with the Drug Take Back program has continued,” said Attorney General Kaul. “Thanks to everyone who helped make the safe disposal of more than 55,000 more pounds of unused medication possible.”
Since the inception of Drug Take Back in 2010 under DEA leadership, Wisconsin has amassed a total collection of 1,257,161 pounds of unwanted medications. This achievement places Wisconsin third nationwide in cumulative collections, following Texas with 1,424,295 pounds and California with 1,404,998 pounds. Nationally, Drug Take Back events have gathered a total of 18,570,487 pounds since their inception.
The DEA conducts two Drug Take Back days annually—one in spring and one in fall. The DOJ collaborates with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to organize and promote these events across the state. The initiative provides a secure and responsible means for disposing unused medications while educating communities about potential abuse and improper storage consequences.
Support from Fuchs Trucking, Reworld, the Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Waukesha County entities including its Sheriff’s Office and various local law enforcement agencies is crucial for these events' success.
While official Drug Take Back Days occur biannually, over 490 permanent drug disposal boxes are available year-round across Wisconsin at law enforcement agencies, hospitals, pharmacies and health clinics. Information on locating a nearby permanent drug disposal box can be found at: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/permanent-drug-drop-boxes.htm.