LOS ANGELES, Calif. — People can get rid of old medications, prescription pills, and vape devices and cartridges today during the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on April 26, local law enforcement agencies nationwide will allow people to dispose of unused, unwanted prescription medications at 4,500 collection sites.

DEA officials said the collection efforts give people “a safe, convenient, and anonymous way to dispose of unneeded prescription medications.” The event is free.

“Disposing of unneeded, expired medications helps us protect the safety and health of our communities,” said DEA Acting Administrator Derek S. Maltz in a news release. “Families can minimize the risk of medications falling into the wrong hands by simply bringing unused medications to one of the 4,500 drop-off locations.”

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that oxycodone, hydrocodone, codeine and morphine are commonly misused prescription painkillers.

In October 2024, DEA and its partners collected nearly 630,000 pounds of medications.

According to DEA officials, more than 19.2 million pounds of pharmaceuticals have been gathered and properly disposed of since the program began in 2010.

Officials said local law enforcement will collect medicated tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs. Liquids, such as cough syrups, must remain tightly sealed in their original containers.

Vaping devices and cartridges will also be accepted at Take Back Day locations; however, lithium batteries must be removed first.

Syringes, sharps and illicit substances will not be collected, officials said.

To find a collection site in your area, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.