Mercer Island Police Will 'Take Back' Prescription Drugs on April 28

The is partnering with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as part of a nationwide prescription drug “Take-Back” initiative this Saturday, April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at .  

Mercer Island Police will accept expired, unused, and unwanted medications, including prescription drugs, at the Mercer Island City Hall loading dock located on the lower level of the West side of the building. The service is free and anonymous — no questions asked.

On Mercer Island 5% of 12th grade students reported using prescription drugs to get high in the past 30 days (2010 Healthy Youth Survey) which, although below King County average of 7%, continues to represent an unnecessary and preventable risk.  

In addition, Islanders are advised that flushing medicines down the toilet poses potential environmental safety and health hazards.

Last November, Mercer Island residents dropped off nearly 140 pounds of unused, expired or unwanted drugs from their homes.

Due to the hazardous nature of some items, the following will not be accepted:  intra-venous solutions, injectables, syringes, or medical waste.

Individuals are encouraged to remove identifying information from prescription labels. For more information and other collection sites visit:  www.DEA.gov and click on “Got Drugs?”