Last Saturday we participated in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a nationwide campaign encouraging people to get rid of their unused medications at collection sites that will safely dispose of the drugs.
While the campaign is a great way to remind people of this option, it should be recognized as a safe outlet to get rid of old medicines year-round. We have a drop-off box at each of the following locations:
- Headquarters: 521 Gibson , Lexington
- North Region: 111 Lincreek Dr., Columbia
- West Region: 4079 Augusta Hwy., Gilbert
- South Region: 102 Airport , Pelion
You’re always free to bring any old or unused medicine to these boxes located in the lobby area of each building – no questions asked.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, an estimated 2.1 million people in the United States suffered from substance abuse disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers in 2012. Studies also show opioid addicts often turn to heroin when it becomes too expensive or difficult to continue obtaining prescription painkillers.
Opioid addiction can affect anyone; it is not contained to certain demographics or economic status. Many addicts and former addicts will tell you they became addicted by either getting a prescription for painkillers or using pills readily available in a medicine cabinet. This is why it is so important not to keep these kinds of pills available in your house.
Please take a minute to look through all of your cabinets for any old prescriptions and make a commitment to do this periodically. It’s an easy way to prevent prescription drug abuse and take a stand against the growing opioid epidemic.