Vermonters participated in the nationwide Prescription Drug Take Back Day this past Saturday, turning in more than 3.5 tons of unused, unwanted and expired medication at over 55 collection sites throughout the state.
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The 7,165 pounds of collected medication sets a record for Drug Take Back Day in Vermont, exceeding the previous record of 6,734 pounds collected in October 2019.
This twice-yearly event provides a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications, while educating about the potential for medication misuse, accidental ingestion and overdose. 
Communities across the state hosted collection sites, which were staffed by local and state police and county sheriff departments, and the collected medications were securely transported out of state and incinerated.
National data shows misused prescription drugs were most often obtained through family and friends with unused prescriptions. Medications that are not properly stored can pose a risk to the health of children and pets who might accidentally ingest them.
Flushing medications, or tossing them in the trash, can also endanger our waterways and wildlife. The DEA estimates that about 10% of the medication collected on Take Back Day are opioids.
Health Commissioner Mark Levine, MD said more than half of the people who misuse prescription medication get it from a friend or relative, often straight out of the medicine cabinet. Which is why timely, safe disposal of unused and unwanted medications makes a huge difference in preventing misuse and diversion. Dr. Levine emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for people.
“For our friends and loved ones suffering from a substance use disorder, and the many Vermonters on whom the stress of the pandemic has taken an emotional toll, it’s important that help includes preventing easy access to prescription and over-the-counter drugs – especially prescription painkillers,†said Dr. Levine. “Let’s make Take Back Day every day.†■