Community Invited to Safely Dispose of Unwanted Medications at Free Drive-Thru Event on Oct. 26
University of Michigan Health-West and the City of Wyoming are teaming up to help residents safely and responsibly dispose of expired, unused or unwanted medications during National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 26.
The public is invited to drop off prescription and over-the-counter medications anonymously at a drive-thru collection site between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at UM Health-West’s Professional Building, located at 2122 Health Drive SW. Trained staff will accept medications, including controlled substances, with no questions asked.
At previous Drug Take Back Day events, the program collected 240 pounds of medications, which were safely incinerated at the Kent County Waste-to-Energy Facility. Proper disposal not only prevents drug misuse but also keeps pharmaceuticals out of landfills and water systems, helping to protect the environment.
UM Health-West and the City of Wyoming leaders say community involvement is crucial in reducing risks associated with unused medications. Research shows that many abused prescription drugs are obtained from family or friends, often taken from home medicine cabinets.
“These events offer a simple way for residents to help prevent drug abuse, addiction and overdoses,” said Pete Haverkamp, director of pharmacy at UM Health-West. “Clearing out your medicine cabinet and bringing unneeded medications to us ensures they won’t end up in the wrong hands.”
In addition to this event, residents can dispose of medications year-round at four SafeMeds drop-off locations throughout Wyoming, including the Department of Public Safety at 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW. The site is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information about the National Drug Take Back Day event or to find a SafeMeds drop-off location, visit wyomingmi.gov/SafeMeds.
