Unused and expired prescription drugs can be misused and may even cause unintended deaths, which is why San Luis Obispo authorities participated in a nationwide drug take back event.
Studies show a majority of abused prescription drugs came from the medicine cabinets of friends and family of an addicted person.
For that reason, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Association hosted nationwide take back events Saturday, including locations in San Luis Obispo, Gaudalupe, Lompoc and Santa Maria.
The San Luis Obispo event was held at CHP Headquarters located on 675 California Blvd. There was an event held at the DMV Office, 523 S. McClelland Street in Santa Maria and
Walmart, 701 W Central Avenue in Lompoc.
At the Drug Take Back Day, people could turn over prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, medication ointments and lotions, inhalers, and liquid medication in leak-proof containers.
Items that were not accepted are needles or sharps, thermometers, aerosol cans, medical waste, personal care products, and hydrogen peroxide.
Tomorrow! Clean out your medicine cabinet and drop by to see us at Rx Drug Take-Back Day, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the California Highway Patrol Parking Lot, 675 California Blvd in SLO. Details at: https://t.co/SMZBqWBMyL
— SLO Public Health (@SLOPublicHealth) October 25, 2019
According to SLO County data, in 2018, there were over 500 opioid prescriptions per 1,000 residents in SLO County, a rate higher than California’s state average.
The event lasted until 2 p.m. however, Saturday is not the only time you can safely dispose of unwanted medication.
Free disposal of medication is available year round at all SLO County pharmacies. Click here if you want to find the nearest drop-off location near you.
For more information on SLO County's take-back programs, click here.
