National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Oct. 27, 2018
The United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has announced Oct. 27, 2018 as the next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This is an opportunity for the public to dispose of prescription medications. In addition, facilities licensed by the Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement (BNE) as a Class 3A Institutional Dispenser, Limited who wish to participate in the DEA National Take Back for controlled substances must complete and submit the requisite disposal/destruction forms DOH 2340 and DOH 166 to the applicable BNE office. These two forms must be received by the BNE regional office on or before Fri., Sept. 28, 2018. Click here to access the forms and related instructions and here for Frequently Asked Questions.
The DEA will contact those facilities prior to Oct. 27th, the Take Back Day, to schedule a time for pickup. For questions regarding the DEA Take Back event for Class 3A Institutional Dispenser, Limited licensed facilities, please contact BNE at 866-811-7957. General questions regarding the DEA Take Back initiative can be sent via email to group supervisor Ghensy Antoine at GAntoine@dea.usadoj.gov.
Facilities with a Class 3A license are also encouraged by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to consider participating in the Pilot Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program. The program covers the costs of consumer drug collection boxes and disposal for two years and gives pharmacies a safe, convenient, and effective way to keep drugs out of our waters and out of the wrong hands. Facilities must find a willing pharmacy partner to apply. Click here for more information.
Lastly, seniors living in the community can dispose of unwanted medications free of charge year-round in collection boxes located throughout the state. Click here to access a map.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828