In light of the ongoing drug overdose epidemic in the United States, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is urging communities to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, scheduled for Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Across Orange County, residents can drop off unneeded medications at various locations, promoting safety and health while preventing potential medication misuse.

As the nation grapples with rising overdose rates, the DEA’s initiative seeks to encourage the public to remove unnecessary medications from their homes. “Every pill removed from a medicine cabinet is one less opportunity for misuse,” stated Ian Kemmer, Director of Behavioral Health Services for the OC Health Care Agency (HCA). “National Take Back Day empowers our community to take simple but powerful action in preventing addiction and saving lives.”

The DEA emphasizes that reducing the availability of prescription drugs is a crucial step in preventing opioid addiction and related overdose deaths. By participating in Take Back Day, community members can contribute to a safer environment while helping combat drug-related violence.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day serves as a vital reminder of our collective responsibility in keeping our communities safe. To find a convenient Take Back drop-off location, please visit the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) website at www.DEATakeback.com or call 1 (800) 882-9539. The drop-off service is both free and anonymous.

For further information on medication misuse prevention efforts in Orange County or to discover year-round safe disposal options, please visit: www.ochealthinfo.com/adept.

 Take Back Day: Saturday, April 26, 2025, 10 am – 2 pm at these locations:  Nearby collection sites can be located at: www.DEATakeBack.com

• Garden Grove Police Department, 11301 Acacia Pkwy, Garden Grove
• Placentia Police Department, 401 E Chapman Ave, Placentia
• Anaheim Police Department, 425 S Harbor Blvd, Anaheim