MAUMEE, OH (WTOL) - It could be a surgery or broken bone that gets someone a prescription for a pain killer.
But drugs like these can be addictive and hard to kick.
When patients can't get a refill, many times it forces them to turn to heroin.
For this reason, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has scheduled a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day for Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Toledo Police Officer Ed Mack says the Drug Take Back is so important now as the community tries to tackle its heroin problem.
"With the heroin epidemic, we are finding many people are starting with prescription drugs they find in medicine cabinets, and then they start stealing form their relatives and neighbors," Mack said. "So this is a good way to get it out of your house."
The local event is an opportunity for people to safely dispose of their unwanted, expired or unneeded prescription drugs.
Plus, these officers are making it easy to get rid of these pills that could be a temptation to someone.
There are several drop off locations around town for narcotics, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and even pet drugs. However, other items found in your medicine cabinet such as ointments, syringes and inhalers are not being collected.
"This is an easy way for you, especially with Kroger stores, you don't even have to get out of your car," Mack said. "We will say hi to you and we will grab your scripts, and pharmacists will be there to answer your questions."
At the previous event last April, the department collected more than 279 pounds of drugs.
People can make their prescription drop offs at any of the following locations:
- TPD Safety Building
- Northwest District Station
- Scott Park Police District Station
- Health Department downtown
- Kroger at Jackman and Laskey
- Kroger at South Detroit and Glendale
- Kroger at Waterville
For additional information, people can contact the DEA at 1-800-882-9539 or visit the website here.
