National Prescription Drug Take Back Day returns Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, giving people across the country an opportunity to safely dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired prescription medications.
The nationwide event, organized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible way to dispose of prescription drugs while educating the public about the dangers of medication misuse.
Collection sites will accept unwanted medications from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
To find a collection site near you, visit DEA.gov/TakeBackDay, where you can enter your location to find a participating drop-off site.
Medications can be brought in their original pill containers or loose in resealable plastic bags.
Unused prescription medications can pose serious risks if they fall into the wrong hands.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends promptly disposing of medications that are no longer needed to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion or misuse.
Proper disposal can also help prevent medications from entering the environment.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day encourages people to clean out their medicine cabinets and safely dispose of medications they no longer use, helping prevent prescription drug misuse and potential harm.
If you’re unable to participate Saturday, there are pharmacies and other authorized collection locations that accept unwanted prescription medications throughout the year.
To find a year-round disposal location near you, visit the Department of Justice’s Controlled Substance Public Disposal Location website.
