Ochsner to Host Taking Back Drug Initiative

Submitted by Ochsner Baton Rouge

Ochsner Baton Rouge has teamed up with local law enforcement to host a Take Back Drug Initiative on Saturday, October 29th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at Ochsner Health Center – O’Neal at 16777 Medical Center Drive (I-12 and O’Neal Lane).  The event provides a safe way to dispose of any unused, expired or unwanted medications.  All controlled, non-controlled and over-the-counter medications will be collected and appropriately disposed of.  Syringes and injectables will not be accepted.   The National Take Back Initiative was started by the DEA in 2010 in response to the increasing rate of prescription medication abuse in America.  The goal is to remove these substances from homes where they are easily accessible.  In addition to reducing the risk of abuse, Ochsner Baton Rouge Pharmacy Director Andy Boothe says the initiative also has an environmental impact.    “Many people think the proper method of disposing of medications is to simply flush them down the toilet.  However, studies have shown that flushed drugs can eventually end up in the public water system,” says Boothe.  Boothe adds that proper disposal can help ensure that drinking water remains clean for area families. The Take Back Initiative is anonymous with no questions asked at the time of drop off.  Participants are asked to remove any identifying information from medication bottles before bringing them to the drop off location.  For more information on the initiative log on to www.ochsner.org.