Free medicine disposal day scheduled

RIVER VALLEY -- According to the Partnership for a Drug Free America, approximately, every day 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time.

More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health.  Maine is no exception. In fact, we have one of the highest incidence rates of prescription drug abuse in the country.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.

In an effort to address this problem, the DEA, in conjunction with the state and our local law enforcement agencies is holding the second National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This will be a great opportunity for those who have unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of them. 

The first national collection day was held last fall. During this event, the collaborative effort in the State of Maine resulted in the collection of 7,820 pounds of prescription drugs ranking Maine No. 1 in the U.S. collection effort based on population.

To build on this successful first event this spring, there are a number of drop off sites. In the River Valley area, collections will take place at the Mexico Town Office, the Dixfield Town Office, Dixfield Police Station, Rumford Police Station, Rumford Hannaford, and the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office on Mayville Road in Bethel.

Medicines that will be accepted include expired or unwanted prescriptions, vitamins, veterinary medications, homeopathic treatments and over the counter medicines. If possible, please bring medicines in their original containers. Do not bring mercury thermometers, needles or syringes, or electronic equipment.

For More Information, contact: Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments at 783-9186 or River Valley Healthy Communities Coalition at 364-7408.