Washington residents can dispose of prescription drugs and vaping products at take back events on April 30

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 04/26/2022 08:41 AM PDT

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News release

For immediate release

April 26, 2022

Washington residents can dispose of prescription drugs and vaping products at take back events on April 30

DEA hosts event to help prevent opioid misuse in community

OLYMPIA – About 75 percent of opioid misuse starts with people using medication that was not prescribed for them, usually taken from a friend or family member. Simple steps like safely disposing of unused medications can stop them from being misused.

Communities throughout the state are partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in hosting prescription drug take back events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 30 at several prescription drug take back locations. Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vape pens, and other e-cigarette devices will be accepted at these events. Medications can remain in their original containers and labels do not need to be removed. Medications not in their original containers also will be accepted. Vape pens and e-cigarettes with batteries removed will be collected.

“Participating in these take back events is one way people can help tackle the opioid crisis and protect loved ones,” said Dr. Charissa Fotinos, HCA deputy chief medical officer and interim state Medicaid director. “With the increase in drug overdoses in our state and nationally, and the stress, strain, and anxiety of the last several years, it’s more important than ever to do our part to keep communities safe.”

Take back events help to support three statewide campaigns: Starts with One, Tribal Opioid Solutions, and Medication Education and Disposal (MED-Project). These campaigns inform and educate young adults, their parents, and older adults about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe storage, use, and disposal, particularly for opioids.

If you are unable to visit a participating location, Washington residents are able to request a pre-paid, pre-addressed medication mail-back envelope through the MED-Project program.

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Media contact

Melissa Thoemke, behavioral health communications manager

About the Health Care Authority (HCA)

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents.

HCA purchases health care for more than 2.5 million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program, and the COFA Islander Health Care Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost.

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