It was part of a nationwide effort sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in conjunction with local law enforcement agencies, aimed at preventing increased illegal pill abuse and theft and to encourage their proper disposal. This was the second time the Hall County Sheriff's Office has participated in the effort.
Hosted at the Hall County Law Enforcement Center, Citizen's Pharmacy in Flowery Branch, and at Murrayville Pharmacy, the event offered an anonymous way for people to dispose of unwanted or unused medications. The three Sheriff's Office sites, along with one hosted by the Gainesville Police Department and one by the Oakwood Police Department, netted a total of 6.2 pounds of prescription medication.
In addition to The DEA and local law enforcement agencies, the event was supported by Safe Kids of Gainesville-Hall County and the Drug Free Coalition of Hall County, who provided volunteers to assist in collection, distribute literature, and survey participants.
The GBI says 78% of accidental overdoses that occurred in Georgia in 2009 were the result of prescription drugs - not illicit drugs. In 2010, 20 cases of accidental prescription drug overdose deaths were reported in Hall County.
"The Murrayville Pharmacy was proud to be one of the Hall County sites participating in the National Take Back Day. Anything we can do in our community to help provide a safe environment for young people, and adults is worth the effort and time," said co-owner Linda Bearden.
Sammy Brown, owner of Citizens Pharmacy in Flowery Branch, believes the safe disposal of unused or expired prescription medications and over-the-counter medications is important on many levels.
"First, we must ensure that these drugs are not getting into the hands of anyone that may abuse them. This take back program and the public awareness that results will also help to educate the public on proper drug disposal methods, like this take back."
"We cannot thank all of the participants enough for taking the time to take back their community by turning in all of their expired and unused prescription drugs. The community's participation in this take back has made a significant difference and literally helped save the lives of friends and family members that may abuse prescription drugs," stated Greg Brooks, Chairman of the Drug Free Coalition of Hall County.
Pills collected during drug take-back day Saturday.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/5/238459