Next Drug Take Back Day scheduled for Oct. 24

Let your patients know that next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is scheduled for Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. These twice-yearly events, coordinated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, are a key tool in our efforts to battle the opioid epidemic.

They provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the public about the potential for abuse of medications. At last October’s Drug Take Back Day, nearly 883,000 pounds of medication were collected nationwide.

As we’ve done previously, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan will support Drug Take Back Day in various ways. For example, we’ll post blogs on MI Blues Perspectives and offer resources on our Opioids 101 site.

To find a drug disposal facility near you that’s participating in Drug Take Back Day, check out the DEA’s search tool** or see Michigan OPEN’s Opioid Disposal Map.**

Keep in mind that people who miss the Take Back events don’t need to wait until the next event to safely dispose of unused drugs. For tips on how to safely dispose of unused drugs year-round, see the May 2018 Record article.

As a reminder, Meijer has a Consumer Drug Take-Back Program** in all Midwest stores. And you can dispose of unused prescription drugs at select Walgreens locations across the state. Read more about Blue Cross’ partnership with Walgreens by clicking here.

For more information on disposing of prescription drugs, visit the DEA Diversion Control Division website** or Michigan OPEN’s Opioid Disposal Information and Resources page.**

**Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan doesn’t own or control this website.