Chattanooga, TN – According to the police officials, the following event reportedly offers an opportunity for individuals to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription medications, helping to prevent misuse and accidental poisonings.

Many may question the need to discard unused medications, especially if they believe the drugs could be useful in the future. However, there are several critical reasons to consider proper disposal:

Unused prescription opioids are often targeted by individuals battling addiction, as well as by children who may stumble upon them. A 2013 study revealed that 15% of students in grades 7 to 12 had misused prescription medications. Moreover, having excess prescription drugs in the home increases the risk of accidental poisoning in young children. Between 2001 and 2008, over 450,000 cases of accidental poisoning involving children under six were reported to U.S. poison control centers—95% of those incidents were tied to prescription drugs.

Holding onto opioids for potential future use also poses a significant risk, not only for the person prescribed but for others in the household, potentially leading to addiction or dependency. Additionally, using leftover antibiotics for self-medication can be harmful, as it may delay proper treatment and complicate diagnosis.

To keep the community safe and protect vulnerable populations, residents are encouraged to responsibly dispose of their unused or expired medications.

Drop-off locations for Prescription Drug Take Back Day include:

– 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

Let’s come together to promote safety and well-being by ensuring medications are disposed of properly.