News

Drug take back day planned for Oct. 25

By Lightning Reports, Published: October 22, 2025

As part of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina is partnering on Saturday, Oct. 25 with federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies across the district to provide free and anonymous disposal of unneeded medications at designated collection sites.

Prescription drugs will be collected from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the collection sites, according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Take-back events ensure the safe and responsible disposal of unwanted prescription medications. Last year, the DEA collected over 1.3 million pounds (649 tons) of prescription drugs nationwide. Since its inception, the program has removed more than 9,910 tons of medication from circulation. Drug enforcement officials say they hope to surpass that total amount during the October take-back event.
To find a nearby collection site, visit www.DEATakeBack.com. Beyond the take back day, the public can safely dispose of unneeded medications year-round at more than 13,000 pharmacies, hospitals, police departments and businesses participating in ongoing disposal programs.