Safely Return Unused or Unwanted Prescriptions on October 25

Safely Return Unused or Unwanted Prescriptions on October 25
October 13, 2025 Sue Riordan
Woman standing and reading pill bottle

The next National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is happening this Saturday, October 25, 2025. The national event, organized by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), allows you to safely return unused prescriptions conveniently and responsibly at local collection sites. The nationwide event runs from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM local time. Disposal services are both free and anonymous.

Why it’s important

Drug overdose and opioid addiction are still serious threats in the U.S. Unused, poorly stored, lost or stolen medications can increase the risk of drug misuse. However, getting rid of expired and unwanted prescription medications lowers that risk, protecting kids, teens and even pets from harm. By participating, you can keep your household safe, while creating a healthier, safer community. Proper disposal of medications prevents dangers like accidental poisonings and limits environmental harms, such as contamination that can occur from flushing medications.

Since its inception, the DEA has collected close to 20 million pounds of medication, preventing potential fatalities or drugs from falling into the wrong hands.

How to participate

To take part,  visit dea.gov/takebackday to find a collection site in your area. You can search by city or ZIP code to find the nearest location. Then, simply turn in your unneeded medications on October 25. If you haven’t done so lately, this is a great opportunity to clean out your medicine cabinet. Please note, items such as syringes, needles, inhalers, aerosol cans, mercury thermometers and illegal substances are not accepted at collection sites.

Getting additional support

Meritain Health® and Meritain Health Pharmacy Solutions (MPS) are committed to keeping our customers and members healthy. If you need extra support, contact your benefits representatives to find out what programs are available.