National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a nationwide effort, sponsored by the federal Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, or unwanted prescription drugs, which will be properly disposed of safely by law enforcement.
This year, members of the Baton Rouge Health District and all local law enforcement agencies (including the local DEA representative) are holding a free event on April 28 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Baton Rouge Police headquarters, 9000 Airline Highway, centered on Drug Take Back Day.
Other locations in Louisiana for drop-offs can be found by visiting takebackday.dea.gov or by calling (800) 882-9539. Louisiana residents may also visit bcbsla.com/safedrugdrop for a list of permanent drop-off boxes around the state.
Drug Take Back Day prescription drug drop-off is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Several healthcare companies will hand out information and giveaways, and some will offer free health screenings. Kids can check out police cars, an ambulance, and an Air Med helicopter.
In Louisiana, the drug overdose rate is higher than the national average. More than 600 residents die from opioid overdoses each year. There are more opioid prescriptions than state residents.