PORT ORCHARD — People around the state — including those in Kitsap County — will be able to dispose of their unused medications and vaping products at drug take-back events from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 24, at sites hosted by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vape pens and other e-cigarette devices will be accepted. Medications can remain in their original containers and labels do not need to be removed, sponsors said.
This take-back event helps support three statewide campaigns from the Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA): Starts with One, Tribal Opioid Solutions and Medication Education and Disposal. These campaigns inform and educate young adults, their parents and older adults about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe storage, use and disposal, particularly for opioids, said Kennedy Soileau, an HCA spokesperson.
About 75% of opioid misuse starts with people using medication not prescribed for them, usually taken from a friend or family member, Kennedy said.
“Participating in these take-back events is one way people can help tackle the opioid crisis and protect loved ones,” said Dr. Charissa Fotinos, HCA deputy chief medical officer.
Community kiosk drop-off sites allow patients to bring expired or unwanted medicines to convenient locations for proper disposal. Residents may also go to selected locations to request a mail-back package for expired or unwanted medicines.
Some items will NOT be accepted: herbal remedies, vitamins, supplements, cosmetics, other personal care products, medical devices, illicit drugs, sharps and pet pesticide products.
Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office in Port Orchard (614 Division St.) is accepting take-back items. Also participating in the program are Rite Aid stores in Port Orchard, Bremerton, Bainbridge Island and Silverdale; Peninsula Community Health Services clinics in Port Orchard and Bremerton; Kitsap Mental Health Services Bremerton Genoa Healthcare Pharmacy; Kaiser Permanente Port Orchard Pharmacy; and Bainbridge Island Police Department.
