The next National Drug Take-Back day is quickly approaching, just a few weeks away. This spring the event falls on Saturday, April 27. These events are the opportune time for Tennesseans to take their unwanted or expired medications and keep them out of the wrong hands.

Take-back events provide a safe, controlled, and convenient environment for residents to dispose of their pills. These events occur twice a year, once in the spring and fall, and are part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Take-Back Initiative. 

Substances Accepted at Take-Back Events

• Unused or expired prescription medications
• Over-the-counter “solid dosage” medications (such as tablets and caplets)

Substances Not Accepted at Take-Back Events

• Illicit drugs, such as marijuana, heroin and LSD
• Insulin syringes or other medical sharps and needles
• Asthma inhalers
• Iodine-containing medications
• Mercury-containing thermometers

These events are the safest and most reliable way to dispose of any unwanted medications; if you are looking for your closest event or are unable to attend a take-back event, you can use the drop box finder to find the closest drop box location near you.