Take Back Programs are beginning nationwide to offer a safe place for citizens to dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired medications. The problems surrounding the disposal of prescription drugs is two fold. These chemicals are highly toxic to the environment when flushed or washed down the drain, but, if kept at home beyond their prescribed usage time, they can fall into the wrong hands.

Locally, the Take Back Program initiative began with a partnership between the San Juan Sheriff’s Office and the San Juan Island Prevention Coalition. Ray’s Pharmacy on Orcas, Friday Harbor Drug and the Lopez Pharmacy are all joining in to help with this program that addresses the need to have a safe way to dispose of excess prescription drugs.

Orcas Island residents can “take back” their unneeded prescription drugs to Ray’s Pharmacy on the first Wednesday of every month, beginning in August.

For more information, pcontact Cara Gresham, Prevention Intern at 378-9683, or Marta Nielson, Orcas Island Prevention Partnership, at 376-1547.