Metropolitan Washington residents can do their part to prevent drug abuse, accidental ingestion, and the contamination of area water supplies by properly disposing of unwanted medication during the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) National Drug Take Back Day. 

The nationwide event is promoted in the region by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and area partners, including law enforcement agencies, water and wastewater utilities, and health officials. A list of permanent, secure disposal locations in the region can be found at protectyourpipes.org/medication. 

In 2017, the DEA reported collection of more than 82,000 pounds of prescription drugs in the District of Columbia, and the states of Maryland and Virginia.

MORE:
Protect Your Pipes – Expired Medication
DEA Drug Take Back Locations