Get Rid of Unwanted Prescription Drugs

You can safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescription drugs by taking them to a designated disposal site this Saturday,  Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

It’s being done as part of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s  5th Annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

For Santee residents, the disposal site will be at Walgreen’s Drug Store, 10512 Mission Gorge Road.

A full list of the drop-off sites is available here. The disposal sites cannot accept needles or sharps.  The service is free and those disposing of pills will not be required to identify themselves, according to a press release from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

This is the preferable way to get rid of old prescription drugs, which, if flushed down the toilet, can contaminate wastewater and pose a threat to the environment.  It’s also advisable to get rid of unused prescription drugs to prevent them from being found or stolen by someone who shouldn’t be taking the medication.
 
If you can’t make the event this Saturday, you can always drop off your unwanted prescriptions at any San Diego County Sheriff’s Department station or substation during regular business hours from Monday through Friday.