Prevent prescription drug abuse

Prescription drug abuse is on the rise in the United States. Removing old medications from the home prevents people from using someone else’s prescription. Many teens who misuse prescription drugs report getting them from friends or relatives. With expired prescriptions in the home, older people who may be easily confused could take the wrong medication and children could accidently get their hands on them.

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Medications that are expired have passed their half-life, which leads to them being ineffective.

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Their chemical composition can change and, over time, expired drugs may become less effective or potentially harmful.

 

Portage County has prescription medication collection boxes located at police departments and pharmacies across the county. 

These locations accept prescription medications only, no liquids or syringes/sharps: