Drug take-back event collects 1,504 pounds of unused medications, syringes

VANCOUVER — More than 413 residents in Clark and Klickitat counties safely dropped off a total of 1,504 pounds of unused medications and syringes during a multisite drug take-back event on Oct. 28.

The medication disposal event was held at six locations and was organized by a committee of local youth substance use prevention coalitions, law enforcement agencies, clinics, pharmacies, community partners and volunteers. The event sites were hosted by PeaceHealth Memorial Campus, Walgreens Cascade Park, Battle Ground Police Department, Washougal Police Department, La Center Police Department, and Klickitat County Courthouse.

“We had a good turnout for the events across our region,” said Kelley Groen-Sieckmann, community prevention project coordinator with Central Vancouver Coalition and ESD 112. “It is always inspiring to see members of the community committed to disposing of medicine properly, which in turn keeps these potentially dangerous substances out of the environment and our waterways. It also protects their children and families from the potential risks of accidental poisonings, overdose, or misuse which can lead to prescription drug addiction,” explained Groen-Sieckmann.

All discarded medications were secured in boxes and transported for incineration by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

For those who missed the drug take-back event, unwanted medications and sharps/syringes can be disposed of year-round at several collection sites across Southwest Washington.

Prescription and over-the-counter medication including controlled substances, such as painkillers and tranquilizers, can be taken to participating law enforcement agencies and pharmacies for safe, free disposal.

Sharps and syringes can be disposed of for free at local participating transfer and recovery centers. Visit www.medtakebackwashington.org to find nearby collection sites that accept medicine for safe, free disposal or to order pre-paid postage envelopes to dispose of medicine by mail.

Do not pour medicine down the drain, flush or throw it in the trash; it could be taken by someone for whom it wasn’t prescribed and it can pollute the environment and our drinking water.