Individuals representing 332 homes donated expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs as part of the regional Take Back Event on April 26, 2014. Participating areas included Bristol, Elizabethton, Johnson City, Jonesborough and Sullivan County. In total, 1,130 pounds were donated (value includes medication and packaging).
Local law enforcement is to be commended for their commitment to assist residents and families to remove potentially dangerous drugs from their homes. The regional effort is also supported by the ETSU’s Gatton School of Pharmacy. Professors and student pharmacists are studying the motivations and tendencies of donors. Regional statistics related to accidental poisonings and diversion highlight the need for timely and appropriate medication disposal.
