LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On Saturday, April 27, Arkansans all across the state participated in Drug Take Back Day, bringing in 25,405 pounds of unwanted prescription drugs.
“I’m proud to announce that Arkansas Take Back has officially collected more than 300 tons of medications to date,” said Kirk Lane, director for the Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership. “By educating Arkansans on the importance of monitoring, securing, and disposing of their unused prescriptions, Arkansas Take Back is saving lives.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Arkansas National Guard worked together to safely destroy these medications, keeping Arkansas’s water supply free of harmful medications.
“Thanks to Arkansans and DEA partners, a collective effort removed over 12 tons of unused or expired medications from homes across the state,” said Jarad Harper, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration. “Everyone has a responsibility to help protect their communities, and this is one of the easiest and most proactive ways to do so.”
Arkansas Drug Take Back Day was first launched in 2010 to help people dispose of unwanted, unused, or expired medications. To date, Arkansas has safely destroyed 606,155 pounds of these medications.
“I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who participated in National Drug Take Back Day,” said Tom Fisher, Arkansas State Drug Director. “The support we’ve witnessed is a testament to the lengths our communities will go to combat the opioid crisis and promote public health and safety.”
Over 275 collection sites are available for Arkansans across the state. To find a drop-off location, download and use the RevivieAR app, which is available on Apple and Google Play stores.