National Drug Take Back Day is this Saturday, October 26, and drop off locations have been set up statewide ahead of the day.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana reminds Louisianians of the role they can play to promote prescription drug safety. Launched more than a decade ago by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the day is meant to raise awareness about the importance of properly disposing expired, unused, or leftover drugs to prevent their abuse and misuse.
This Saturday, Louisianians can visit drop-off locations statewide between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Locations are listed on the DEA's website.
Residents can also safely drop off their unused prescription drugs year-round at permanent drug drop boxes in more than 55 parishes across the state. These boxes have been set up by a partnership between Blue Cross, Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators, and law enforcement offices throughout the state.
The boxes are securely installed, typically housed within law enforcement agencies, and are available 24/7. All turn-ins are anonymous; no questions will be asked.
A map of all drug drop box locations is available online here.
Opioids kept around the home can be especially dangerous. According to the CDC, nearly half of opioid overdose deaths nationally happen to someone who is taking these drugs by prescription, such as pain relief drugs like OxyContin, Vicodin, or Percocet. Leaving such drugs in the home makes it more likely that they could be stolen or accidentally consumed.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana customers who want information about drug or alcohol treatment for themselves or family members covered on their plans can call the 24/7 Substance Use Member Hotline at 1-877-326-2458 to speak with a clinical professional. The hotline is operated by New Directions, an independent vendor that provides behavioral health services for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana and its subsidiaries.
So far, we have learned of two local law enforcement agencies that are participating in the day: Broussard Police and St. Martin Parish Sheriff's Office. VPSO also recently received a year-round drop off box.
Learn more about National Drug Take Back Day here.
