Safely dispose of unused medications at Maury Regional drug take-back event

Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) will offer the public an opportunity to safely dispose of expired, unused or unneeded prescription drugs on Saturday, Oct. 29.

The free drug take-back event will be held in front of the MRMC Medical Office Building at 1222 Trotwood Ave. in Columbia from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The event will feature a convenient drive-through disposal process. Staff members will be on hand to safely receive items from drivers in their vehicles. The service is free and anonymous with no information required.

“We look forward to again offering community members a convenient way to safely rid their households of medications that are no longer needed,” MRMC Security Director Michael Johnson said. “We encourage local residents to take advantage of this opportunity to dispose of medications that have expired or are unused.”

The secure disposal of medication is important for numerous safety and health reasons. Medication should not be flushed down a toilet or tossed in the trash. In addition, medicines that are kept in home cabinets are susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicates that most misused and abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including medication taken from home medicine cabinets.

Only medications in pill or patch form should be brought to the upcoming event. The site cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps. Items should be in their original container, if possible. On the day of the event, those wishing to drop off medications can use the convenient drive-through process for quick and easy service.