The Michigan State Police (MSP) is asking residents to dispose of expired, unused and unwanted pills during National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day Saturday, Oct. 26, one of two annual events held in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and other law enforcement agencies.

“This is something every Michigan resident can do to make sure unused prescription drugs don’t end up in the wrong hands. Even one pill makes a difference,” said Col. Joe Gasper, director of the Michigan State Police. “Take a few moments to check your home and get rid of these medications. Opioid and prescription drug abuse, accidental poisonings and overdoses are real. Help us fight this crisis.”

MSP’s 30 posts — including the Gladstone Post — will participate in the one-day ‘Take-Back’ effort from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, by serving as drop-off points. All collected pills will be destroyed, with no questions asked. Liquids, inhalers, patches and syringes cannot be accepted.

The State of Michigan is using every available tool to combat the opioid epidemic. The collaborative efforts of state agencies amplifies Michigan’s efforts related to prevention and treatment of patients, education of health professionals and enforcement of over-prescribers. Efforts include:

– A one-stop shop website (Michigan.gov/opioids) with all helpful information and resources on the epidemic.

– Providing online resources for patients, health professionals and communities about prevention and treatment of opioid abuse;

– The Michigan Automated Prescription System provides real-time prescription data and resources to better assess a patient’s risk for substance use disorder;

– Assistance with proper drug disposal of unwanted medications;

– Michigan State Police posts serving as drug-take back sites and providing the Angel Program for individuals struggling with addiction.

For more information about opioids and the additional steps residents can take to protect themselves and loved ones, visit michigan.gov/opioids.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is held twice a year, in April and October. During the April 2019 effort, MSP posts collected 1,184 pounds of prescription drugs.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. Further, disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash can pose environmental and health hazards.

Anyone who is unable to participate on National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day can anonymously surrender their prescription drugs at any MSP post, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding holidays, or at the Escanaba Public Safety Department.