Prescription Drug Take Back Program

The Prescription Drug Take Back addresses a vital public safety and public health issue.  More than seven million Americans currently abuse prescription drugs, according to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Survey on Drug Use and Health.  Each day, approximately 2,500 teens use prescription drugs to get high for the first time according to the Partnership for a Drug Free America.  Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.

Due to the public response and the on-going issues surrounding prescription drug abuse, the Anoka County Sheriff's Office, along with its law enforcement partners, provides an on-going Prescription Drug Take Back Program.

To date, the Anoka County Sheriff's Office, along with its law enforcement partners, collected nearly 12,500 pounds of unwanted prescription drugs and safely disposed of them. 

The goal of the Prescription Drug Take Back is to provide a convenient drop off location for the public to dispose of unwanted or unused prescription drugs. 

The Prescription Drug Take Back will accept unwanted prescription drugs from non-commercial, residential users only.  No syringes, needles, or other hazardous materials will be accepted.  Participation in the Prescription Drug Take Back is free and anonymous; all prescriptions will be disposed of with "no questions asked."

Learn more about the Prescription Drug Take Back on the Anoka County Sheriff's Office Website.

Closest Prescription Drug Take Back Drop Off locations to Columbus include: