The DEA's Take Back Day aims to prevent prescription drug abuse in El Paso

EL PASO, TX (KVIA) – The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will host its annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26th. This is an opportunity to safely dispose of expired, unused or unwanted medications.

The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature anonymous drop-off locations throughout the city.

ABC-7 spoke with DEA ​​Public Information Officer Carlos Briano, who says the event aims to prevent substance use disorders by reducing the availability of unused medications. “Many studies show that substance use disorders sometimes begin because medications were taken improperly or withdrawn from a relative or friend,” he said.

The DEA also points out that improper disposal of medications, such as flushing them down the toilet, can harm the environment. All medication collected on Take Back Day will be burned. “We are committed to making our community safer and healthier,” Briano said. “When people flush them down the toilet, it slows down the sewage system. When people throw them in the trash can, believe it or not, there are people who are dumpster diving to try to get these drugs.”

If residents are unable to attend on Saturday, the DEA offers disposal options at designated locations throughout the year. Click here to find these locations.