The Michigan State Police is asking local residents to bring their expired, unused or unwanted medication to their posts as part of the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day next Saturday, Oct. 26.

The Drug Take-Back Day is one of two annual events held in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration and other law enforcement agencies.

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is held twice a year, in April and October. During the April 2019 effort, the MSP collected 1,184 pounds of drugs statewide.

All 30 of the MSP’s posts will participate in the effort from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. by serving as the drop-off points. All pills collected will be destroyed, with no questions asked. Liquids, inhalers, patches and syringes will not be accepted.

This take-back is part of Michigan’s attempt to use every available tool to combat the opioid epidemic. Several state agencies are working hard on this, with efforts focused on prevention and treatment of patients, education of health professionals and enforcement of over-prescribers.

Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. Disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash can pose environmental and health hazards.

Those who are unable to participate on National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day can anonymously surrender their prescription drugs at any MSP post, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding holidays.