The National Prescription Drug Take Back-Day aims to provide a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of prescribed medications. Two drug take back sites will be open in Washington Parish on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The Bogalusa Police Department will be at Nielsen’s Pharmacy, which is located at 1619 S. Columbia St. in Bogalusa. The Franklinton Police Department will be at Forshag’s Pharmacy, which is located at 1919 Main St. in Franklinton.

Items that will be accepted include expired prescription drugs, unwanted prescription drugs, over-the-counter pills, controlled and non-controlled substances. Non-accepted items include liquid products, injectable drugs, and syringes.

The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day addresses a crucial public safety and public health issue. According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.2 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that a majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

Too often, unused prescription drugs find their way into the wrong hands, which can be dangerous and often tragic.

The DEA’s Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for Americans to prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths by disposing of prescription drugs that are no longer needed.