Get Rid of Your Unused, Expired Prescription Medications | News

This Saturday is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day and the county is encouraging community members to collect their unused and expired medications and bring them to a drop-off location throughout the county.

Prescription medications may include pills that contain opioids such as oxycodone or antibiotics, and other medications.

In 2022, 857 people died from opioid overdoses in San Diego County, an increase of about 115% over 2016 numbers.

Safely disposing of unused or expired medications helps prevent misuse, accidental poisonings, and the risk of medications ending up in illegal markets or falling into the wrong hands.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has a list of more than 25 Locations Countywide will be open for the drop-off of unwanted prescription medications this Saturday, including the following San Diego County Sheriff's Office facilities, which will be open for drop-off from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m

• Alpine Sheriff Station – 2751 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine
• Imperial Beach Sheriff's Substation – 845 Imperial Beach Boulevard, Imperial Beach
• San Marcos Sheriff’s Station – 182 Santar Place, San Marcos
• Poway Sheriff's Station – 13100 Bowron Road, Poway

Disposal of unused and unwanted prescription medications is not limited to one day a year. San Diego County offers more than 200 year-round disposal sites. Check the DEAs Every day is take back day website or Interactive map of the district to find a disposal point near you.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day also aligns with the annual DEA Day Red Ribbon Week which runs until October 31 and aims to raise awareness about drug prevention.

Substance use treatment resources and support services are available through the local San Diego Access and Crisis Line at 888-724-7240 or 988.

These resources are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can provide help in over 150 languages.