By james art LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — If you have unused prescription drugs, law enforcement wants to help you dispose of them safely.
According to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the majority of people who use prescription drugs for nonmedical purposes were given the drug by a family member or friend.
In the Las Vegas area, the rate of nonmedical prescription use is higher than the national average: 6.7% in the Valley compared to 4.9% nationally.
That’s why the Drug Enforcement Administration hosts Take Back Days throughout the year to get these drugs off the streets.
Examples of drugs that police take include:
- Hydrocodone (Norco, Lortab, Vicodin)
- Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet)
- Tramadol (Ultram)
- Someone
- Fentanyl (Duragesic)
- Morphine
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- oxymorphone (opana)
- Ointments, patches and drops (in leakproof containers)
- Vape Cartridges (without batteries)
- Medicines for pets
While all medications will be accepted, no needles, syringes, lancets or liquids will be accepted.
The next event is on Saturday, October 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m
You can stop at several places in the valley, including:
- North Las Vegas Police Department – Northwest Area Command
- Mountainview Hospital – Main Lobby Entrance/Car
- Palo Verde High School
- VA Hospital at 215
- Southern Hills Hospital & Medical Center – corner of Sunset & Quarterhorse Lane
- Coronado High School
- Henderson Police Department – West Police Department
- Smith’s Marketplace – Grand Canyon Drive and Skye Canyon Park Drive
You can find the location nearest you by visiting the DEA website here.