Do you have expired or unwanted medications needing safe disposal?
On Saturday, October 24, 2020, the Linn County Sheriff’s Office will be collaborating with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in a nationwide prescription drug “Take-Back” initiative that seeks to prevent increased pill abuse and theft. The Sheriff’s Office will be collecting potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs for destruction at the Linn County Sheriff’s Office (West Parking Lot), 310 2nd Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This free, anonymous service will help keep your home safe and could even save lives.
We ask that you please follow social distancing guidelines and wear a mask, if possible, when dropping off prescription drugs.
The National Prescription Drug Take-Back addresses a vital public safety and public health issue. Many Americans are not aware that medicines that remain in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the U.S. are at alarming rates, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, many Americans do not know how to properly dispose of their unused medicine, often flushing them down the toilet or throwing them away – both potential safety and health hazards.
For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs or about the October 24 Take Back Day event, visit he DEA Diversion website.
The Linn County Sheriff's Office also has a secure, permanent drop box available for prescription drop-offs 24/7 in the Sheriff's Office parking lot.
Strengthen your community and make your home safer by participating in this national initiative.