State Health Department: Dispose of Old or Unused Prescription Medications this Saturday During National Prescription Drug Take Back Day

ALBANY, N.Y. (October 28, 2011) -- The State Health Department is encouraging all New Yorkers to safely dispose of unwanted or unused prescription drugs this Saturday, October 29, for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. Prescriptions will be accepted from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at approximately 300 community locations across the State.

The event is sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

"Unused prescription drugs in homes can present a significant public safety and public health risk if not disposed of properly," Health Commissioner Nirav R. Shah, M.D., M.P.H., said. "We urge all New Yorkers to take stock of the prescriptions in their homes and properly dispose of any and all drugs that are unneeded to prevent any chance of misuse."

In connection with this event, the State Health Department's Bureau of Narcotic Enforcement has been working with the DEA to arrange visits to nearly 100 health care facilities throughout the State to collect discontinued, expired or unwanted pharmaceuticals.

For additional information about the Prescription Drug Take Back Day or to search for a collection site near your home, visit: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_disposal/takeback/