Acting U.S. Atty M. Rhett DeHart urges public to participate in 20th National @DEAHQ Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Sat, April 24-removing opioids & other medicines that could be abused or stolen from homes by family & visitors.

Full @USAO_SC release: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sc/pr/acting-us-attorney-urges-participation-national-dea-drug-take-back-day

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisoning and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family &friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.

According to new numbers from the @CDCgov, opioid overdose deaths have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DeHart: “Because expired, unused & unwanted medicines languishing in homes are highly susceptible to misuse, I encourage public to participate in spring @DEAHQ Drug Take Back Day. It’s a safe, convenient & anonymous way to dispose prescription drugs & protect yourself & others.”

Saturday, April 24 10AM to 2PM at more than 50 locations across SC, @DEAHQ & partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches & solid forms of medication. Vaping devices and cartridges will also be accepted, so long as the lithium batteries are removed.

Liquids including IV solutions, syringes & illegal drugs will NOT be accepted. All collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines to maintain the safety of all participants & local LEOs.

For more info & to find a site: http://www.DEATakeBack.com  or call 1-800-882-9539.