October 26, 2024  Annual Drug Take Back Day

October 26, 2024  Annual Drug Take Back Day aims to remove access to unused prescription drugs in homes.

Safely disposing of unused or expired medications helps prevent drug misuse and reduces the risk of overdoses. Many opioid addictions begin with medications found at home, making safe disposal crucial for keeping these substances out of the wrong hands.  National Drug Take Back Day serves as an important reminder to clean out our medicine cabinets and anonymously turn in any medications we no longer need. 

Disposing of medications in the trash or flushing them down the drain can introduce harmful chemicals into soil and water sources, endangering wildlife and disrupting ecosystem.  Fortunately, many pharmacies and police stations offer medication disposal kiosks, providing a convenient way to get rid of unwanted drugs responsibly. It’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability.  

Below, you’ll find links to locate nearby drop-off points, along with a list of pharmacies near the Charles River Campus that offer medication disposal kiosks for public use.   

CVS
214 Harvard Ave,
Allston, MA 02134 

CVS
294 Harvard Street
Brookline, MA 02446 

Walgreens
841 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02116 

The US DEA site has a search function for drug disposal sites near you. https://www.dea.gov/takebackday 

The City of Boston has these kiosks located at Community Police Stations. https://www.boston.gov/government/cabinets/boston-public-health-commission/drug-take-back-kiosks 

 Let’s work together to protect our loved ones and community—safe disposal saves lives!