Scotch Plains Police Taking Back Unwanted Prescription Drugs, April 27

This release was submitted by the Scotch Plains Police Department.

On April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Scotch Plains Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its sixth opportunity in three years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Bring your medications for disposal to the Scotch Plains Police at 430 Park Ave. Scotch Plains.  The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the medicine cabinet.  In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines-flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash-is unacceptable as both pose potential safety and health hazards.

Last September, Americans turned in 244 tons of prescription drugs at over 5,200 sites.