Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands. That's dangerous and often tragic. That's why it was great to see thousands of folks from across the country clean out their medicine cabinets and turn in - safely and anonymously - a record amount of prescription drugs.
Periodic Events
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) periodically hosts National Prescription Drug Take Back events. During this Drug Take Back Day, temporary drug collection sites are set up in communities nationwide to dispose of prescription drugs safely. Here is a list of some temporary sites in Illinois.
Local law enforcement agencies may also sponsor medicine take back events in your community. Additionally, you can contact your local waste management authorities to learn about events in your area.
Permanent Collection Locations and Sites
Some facilities and businesses are registered with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to collect old, unused, unneeded, or expired medicines. These authorized drug collection locations safely and securely gather and dispose of pharmaceuticals containing controlled substances and other medicines.
Your community's collection locations may be retail pharmacies, hospitals or clinic pharmacies, and law enforcement agencies/ facilities. Some authorized collectors may also offer mail-back programs or collection receptacles (drop-off boxes) to assist you in safely disposing of your unused medicines.
Lastly, you can go to Google MapsExternal Link Disclaimer and type in "drug disposal near me" or "medication disposal near me" to find your nearest drug disposal site.
Find an authorized drug collection site near you or call the DEA Diversion Control Division Registration Call Center at 1-800-882-9539 for more information.
If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out at www.helplineil.org, call 833-234-6343, or text "HELP" to 833234.