Washington, DC

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) and the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) are encouraging residents to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26. On Saturday, from 10 am to 2 pm,  the District will host drop-off sites across the city where residents can safely dispose of unwanted, unneeded, or expired prescription medications, helping to reduce the risk of misuse and protect the community.

“By safely disposing of prescription drugs that are no longer needed, we can protect our loved ones and our community,” said Mayor Bowser. “We want people to know that these simple actions can prevent addiction and save lives. We also want people to keep spreading the word that treatment works, and if you or someone you know needs help, reach out.

Prevention of drug misuse is a key strategy in the District’s LIVE.LONG.DC. comprehensive plan to combat the opioid crisis. DBH recently launched two public education campaigns to reach youth and parents/caregivers. The Pause Play Campaign provides youth and families a balance of information about drugs and alcohol, and access to local activities, events, and organizations to engage families and lessen the chances of youth substance use. Additionally, a social media campaign is ongoing to educate residents about the dangers of fake pills.  In a recent city-wide survey, one out of every eight middle and high school age students admitted they had taken pills not prescribed to them. Often bought online and on the street, these pills are likely to contain the deadly opioid fentanyl. In fact, 65% of the fake pills seized contained fentanyl. 

“The agency is committed to providing a range of unique supports to address substance use among all populations. Youth engagement is critical to youth substance use prevention. Early intervention is vital for youth,” said Dr. Barbara Bazron, Director of the DC Department of Behavioral Health. “Every year that substance use is delayed while the adolescent brain develops, the risks of addiction and substance misuse decrease.” 

If you or someone you know is at risk of an opioid overdose, DBH urges you to get and keep naloxone, a lifesaving medication. Hundreds and hundreds of suspected opioid overdoses have been reversed using naloxone, often by community members. Text “LiveLongDC” to 888-811 to get a free naloxone kit by mail, delivery, or pickup locations across the District. 

Drop-Off Sites 

Ward One 

• Mt. Pleasant Library: 3160 16th Street NW 
• MPD Third District Station: 1620 V Street NW 

Ward Two 

• Shaw/Watha T. Daniel Library: 1630 7th St NW 
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library: 901 G Street NW 

Ward Three 

• MPD Second District Station: 3320 Idaho Avenue NW 

Ward Four  

• MPD Fourth District Station: 6001 Georgia Avenue NW 

Ward Five 

• MPD Fifth District Station: 1805 Bladensburg Road NE 

Ward Six 

• Southwest Library: 900 Wesley Place SW 
• MPD First District Substation: 101 M Street, SW 

Ward Seven 

• MPD Sixth District Station: 5002 Hayes Street NE 
• Dorothy I. Height/Benning Neighborhood Library: 3935 Benning Road NE 

Ward Eight 

• Anacostia Library: 1800 Marion Barry Avenue SE 
• MPD Seventh District Station: 2455 Alabama Avenue SE 
   

If residents are unable to visit a drop-off site on Saturday, year-round collection sites are available throughout the community. Find one near you here. Residents can also safely dispose unneeded medication using this guidance from the DEA. For more information on the work of the District government and the community-based organizations that we partner with to reduce opioid use, misuse and related overdose deaths, visit dbh.dc.gov and LiveLong.DC.gov. 

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