Kansans safely disposed of more than 7,000 pounds of unused and unwanted medicines during last month's National Drug Take-Back Day, said Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt.
Kansas law enforcement officers collected more than three-and-a-half tons of medicines at 66 locations throughout the state during the April 30 event, according to a report from the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.
Kansans have safely destroyed a more than 118 tons of medications in the 22 collection days held since 2010. That's the equivalent of nearly five semi-trailer loads of unused medication. Law enforcement agencies turn those collected drugs over to the DEA, which safely destroys the medications.
Unused prescriptions may be turned in year-round at many local law enforcement locations as well as a limited number of other locations. Kansans should contact their local sheriff’s office or police department for more information.
“Safe storage and proper disposal are the keys to preventing the accidental or intentional misuse of prescription medications,” Schmidt said. “Kansans continue to recognize the importance of safely disposing of their unused medicines during these Drug Take-Back events. I appreciate the leadership of the DEA and local law enforcement agencies in providing this service for Kansans.”