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Military Joins Take Back Drug Day

Sedona AZ (September 23, 2014) – On Saturday, September 27, 2014, TRICARE beneficiaries can safely and responsibly dispose of unused, expired or unwanted prescription medications. The Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA’s) National Prescription Drug Take-back Day will have sites around the country open from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The DEA event allows people to turn in excess prescription drugs that otherwise could be abused or contaminate the environment.

Prescription and over-the-counter “solid dosage” drugs – tablets and capsules – are accepted, but intravenous solutions, injectable medications and needles are not.

A 2011 national survey on drug use found that Americans are twice as likely to abuse prescription drugs regularly, as they are to regularly use cocaine, hallucinogens, heroin and inhalants combined. The same study found more than 70 percent of people abusing prescription pain relievers got them from friends or relatives, often without their knowledge.

During the DEA last take-back day in April 2014, Americans disposed of more than 780,158 pounds of unwanted, unused or expired prescription drugs. The last seven take-back days have removed more than 4.1 million pounds of unused medications from American homes.

To find a collection site, click “Locate Collection Sites” on the Office of Diverson Control website. Many military installations participate in the event, including; the Pentagon; Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado; the Naval Medical Center, San Diego; and, Fort Hood in Texas. Check your state and area for a Take Back Drug collection site event. Inquiries can also be made at 1-800-882-9539.

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