Amid the escalating drug overdose crisis, physicians affiliated with the Medical Association of the State of Alabama are advocating for Alabamians to responsibly dispose of their expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications this Saturday, April 27, in observance of the nationwide "Prescription Drug Take Back Day."

Held twice a year, Take Back Day aims to encourage individuals to clear their homes of unnecessary medications, reducing the risk of misuse and potential fatalities resulting from drug overdoses.

“Old, unwanted or expired prescription drugs too often become a gateway to addiction or accidental overdose. Take Back Day is a safe, convenient and responsible way to permanently remove these drugs so they can never be misused or abused,” said Dr. Amanda Williams, president of the Medical Association. “By participating, Alabamians can play an important role in preventing drug abuse and safeguarding others from accidental poisoning or overdose.”

On Saturday, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and its affiliates will facilitate the collection of tablets, capsules and other prescription drugs at approximately 50 locations statewide.
Designated collection sites will not accept syringes or illicit substances. Liquid medications, such as cough syrup, must remain sealed in their original containers, with the cap securely tightened to prevent leakage.

According to data from the Alabama Department of Public Health's Emergency Medical Services database, the state recorded 9,313 overdose-related incidents in 2023, marking a 13.6% increase from the previous year.

For those in Baldwin County seeking drop-off locations, the DEA website lists two sites: Homestead Village in Fairhope, situated at 924 Plantation Boulevard, and the Orange Beach Police Department, located at 4480 Orange Beach Boulevard.