State Senator Rich Draheim (R-Madison Lake) is urging residents of Blue Earth, Faribault, Le Sueur, Martin, Rice, Scott, and Watonwan counties to participate in this year’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26, 2024. This nationwide event provides a simple and safe way for individuals to dispose of expired or unused prescription medications, preventing potential misuse and helping protect local communities.
“By taking part in Prescription Drug Take Back Day, we’re all doing our part to keep homes and neighborhoods safer,” Sen. Draheim said. “Proper disposal of prescription drugs not only prevents drug abuse but also protects our families, pets, and the environment from potential harm. It’s a small action that can make a big difference.”
Residents can drop off their unwanted or expired prescriptions at designated locations throughout the region from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on October 26. Accepted items include pills, patches, capsules, vials, creams, and even pet medications. Liquids must be in their original containers, and vape pens or e-cigarettes are accepted with batteries removed. Collection is free and anonymous.
To find the nearest drop off location, visit https://www.dea.gov/takebackday.
In addition to this event, permanent prescription drug drop-off boxes are available year-round at several sites across the district. To locate the closest permanent drop off site, residents can search the DEA’s drop off location database.
Local drop-off locations include:
- Hy-Vee Pharmacy, 410 S Riverfront Dr, Mankato
- CVS Pharmacy, 1175 Madison Ave, Mankato
- Walgreens, 1270 Madison Ave, Mankato
- Walmart Pharmacy, 1881 Madison Ave, Mankato
- Hy-Vee Pharmacy, 2010 Adams St, Mankato
- Hy-Vee Pharmacy, 1002 Old Minnesota Ave, Saint Peter
- Hy-Vee, 2015 S Broadway, New Ulm
- Allina Health New Ulm Pharmacy, 1217 8th St. N, Suite 1010, New Ulm
- Hy-Vee, Inc., 907 S State St, Fairmont
Prescription drug misuse is a growing public safety concern. Unused medications that are old, unwanted, or no longer needed often become a gateway to addiction. In fact, a majority of opioid addictions start with prescription pills found in medicine cabinets at home. National Prescription Drug Take Back Day helps prevent these medications from falling into the wrong hands and contributing to addiction.
For more information about the dangers of prescription drug misuse, visit www.DEA.gov, www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com, or www.JustThinkTwice.com.