Today’s issue of WorkCompRecap features the DEA’s recent announcement that in light of opioid overdose deaths increasing during the COVID-19 pandemic its 20th Take Back Day has been scheduled for April 24.
The DEA noted that the most recent Take Back Day in October collected a record-high amount of expired, unused prescriptions, with the public turning in close to 500 tons of unwanted drugs. Over the 10-year span of Take Back Day, more than 6,800 tons of prescription drugs have been collected. With studies indicating a majority of abused prescription drugs come from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets, clearing out unused medicine is essential. Collection sites which will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.