Chattanooga, TN – According to the police officials, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., several designated locations will serve as drop-off points across the area.
Unused medications, especially opioids, present numerous risks in the home. Studies have shown that 15% of students in grades 7 to 12 have misused prescription drugs, and extra medications can attract those struggling with addiction.
Moreover, holding onto old prescriptions increases the likelihood of accidental poisoning in young children; between 2001 and 2008, over 450,000 poisoning cases were reported among children under six, with the vast majority involving prescription drugs.
Aside from the dangers of opioids, keeping leftover antibiotics for self-medication can complicate accurate medical diagnoses, potentially delaying effective treatment. Experts urge that unused medications be disposed of safely to prevent misuse or accidental ingestion.
Residents can participate in the Take Back event at the following locations:
– Avondale Community Center, 1305 Dodson Ave.
– Walgreens, 3605 Brainerd Rd.
– Walgreens, 2289 Gunbarrel Rd.
– Walgreens, Hixson – 5478 SR-153
– Elks Lodge #91, 1067 Graysville Rd.
– Food City, Red Bank – 3901 Dayton Blvd.
– Walgreens, East Ridge – 5301 Ringgold Rd.
– Walgreens, Ooltewah – 9307 Lee Hwy.
– Mt. Canaan, 4801 SR-58
– Food City, Harrison – 8634 Hwy. 58
– Walmart, Dayton – 3034 Rhea County Hwy.
– Spring City Police Department, 229 Front Street
– GRACE Center, 67 Old Hwy #56
This initiative is a step toward promoting safer homes and communities, reducing the risk of medication misuse and ensuring that old prescriptions don’t become a danger.