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New Guidelines Released To Dispose Of Prescription Drugs

Last updated on Thursday, September 11, 2014

(UNDATED) - Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller announced Wednesday the United States Drug Enforcement Administration has released new guidelines that will give consumers more ways to safely dispose of prescription drugs.

Prior to these new guidelines, the public has been limited on where they could dispose of their unwanted controlled substances.

"Prescription drug abuse is so rampant largely because these medications are easy to access," Zoeller said.

Pharmacies, doctors' offices and hospitals were banned from accepting these medications, except under certain circumstances like on national Prescription Drug Take-Back days.

"It is all too common for families to leave unused and unwanted prescription drugs in their home medicine cabinets or toss them in the trash, readily available to potential abusers," Zoeller continued. "Part of the problem is a lack of knowledge about the importance of properly disposing of these medications and how to do so safely."

Effective Oct. 9, pharmacies and other health-care facilities will be able to register as collectors and accept controlled substances year-round. Zoeller expects pharmacies and other health-care facilities in the state to embrace the opportunity to provide a vital community service.

"Giving consumers more convenient options for disposal will help prevent prescription drugs from continuing to fall into the wrong hands," Zoeller said. "We've lost too many lives to addiction and overdose. Everyone has a role to play in this fight."

Sept. 27 is the next DEA-sponsored Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Visit the DEA website or call 1-800-882-9539 to find a nearby collection site.

For more information on the Indiana Attorney General's Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force, visit www.BitterPill.IN.gov.

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