Argyle residents can dispose of unwanted prescription drugs, over-the-counter medication or pet medication anonymously at a new medical return unit at the police station.
The “Med Return” box is located in the lobby of the Argyle Police Department located at 506 North US 377 and is accessible Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The secure container accepts expired and/or unwanted medications and prescription drugs to ensure safe and proper disposal, according to Police Chief Tom Tackett.
Unwanted drugs and medications may be dropped off anonymously and all medications that are received are deposited into a locked and secured box within the Police Department.
“This program, which was funded by the Argyle Crime Control and Prevention District, has become increasingly important and assists with the prevention of overuse and/or misuse of prescription medication,” said Tackett.
According to the Center for Disease Control, prescription drugs, including opioids and antidepressants, are responsible for more overdose deaths than “street drugs” such as cocaine, heroin, and amphetamines.
Overuse and/or misuse of prescription medications has become a significant problem throughout the United States. Studies show that 70 percent of teenagers who use prescription drugs non-medically get them from friends and family members.
Tackett said that the public is encouraged to assist law enforcement by properly disposing of their unused prescription medication, which is a safer and more sustainable method of disposal than throwing away pills – it keeps the medication out of the hands of children – and/or flushing them down the toilet and into the wastewater treatment or septic systems.
“Our DEA National Take Back Initiative Day was very successful with over 50 pounds of prescription medication collected; it however comes but once a year. We have decided that we can make our community safer and more secure by providing this important service to our community during normal business hours,” said Tackett.
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