Story perspectives

Safely Dispose of Unused Medications at DEA Event

10/10/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is hosting a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2023, for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents in Mission Viejo, Orange County, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Lake Forest can safely dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.
The event, organized with the Orange County Sheriff's Department, occurs twice a year and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Accepted items include old prescriptions, but sharp objects, marijuana, liquids, and pressure canisters will not be collected.
Drop-off locations include Mission Viejo Christian Church and Lake Forest Civic Center.

History

Historical Context

In 2010, the U.S. Congress passed the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act, enabling the DEA to establish safe disposal methods for prescription drugs. This initiative, part of a broader effort to combat the opioid crisis, has led to the collection of over 12 million pounds of medications nationwide. The upcoming National Prescription Drug Take Back Day in October 2023 highlights ongoing community efforts to reduce drug misuse.

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Story summary

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is hosting a recycling event on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2023, for National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Residents in Mission Viejo, Orange County, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Lake Forest can safely dispose of unused or expired prescription medications.
The event, organized with the Orange County Sheriff's Department, occurs twice a year and runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Accepted items include old prescriptions, but sharp objects, marijuana, liquids, and pressure canisters will not be collected.
Drop-off locations include Mission Viejo Christian Church and Lake Forest Civic Center.

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