DEA Accepting Vaping Products on Drug Take Back Day Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again. × Search search POPULAR SEARCHES SUGGESTED LINKS Join AARP for just $9 per year when you sign up for a 5-year term. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. Leaving AARP.org Website You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Drop Off Unused Medications on Prescription Drug Take Back Day

National disposal program now accepts vaping devices and cartridges

Tetra Images/Getty Images Saturday is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, a chance to clean out your medicine cabinet and safely dispose of unwanted, unused or expired prescription medications at drop-off points around the country. This year, vaping devices and cartridges will be accepted for the first time as part of the free and anonymous program, which is organized twice a year by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). The agency acknowledged the of vaping-related illnesses and deaths in a press release announcing the expanded guidelines. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. "DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative helps get unused and unwanted prescription medications out of circulation and ensures their safe disposal,” said Uttam Dhillon, the agency's acting administrator. “This year, we are taking a step further by accepting vaping devices and cartridges as we work with our federal partners to combat this emerging public health threat to the nation's youth." At the most recent Take Back Day in April, the agency and its partners collected 469 tons of prescription drugs — bringing the amount of medication collected since the program began in 2010 to nearly 6,000 tons (more than 11 million pounds). For expert tips to help feel your best, .
Some restrictions apply: The program does not accept illicit drugs, needles, sharps, liquids, or vaping devices that contain lithium ion batteries. The agency encourages people whose devices contain non-removable lithium batteries to consult with stores that offer battery recycling programs. To find the drop-off site nearest you, use the DEA's or call 800-882-9539. Questions about which medications are accepted should be directed to your specific location. All drop-off sites will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time Oct. 26. Can't participate on Saturday? Drugstore chains, including CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens, provide year-round in their stores. The DEA also offers a for the disposal of controlled substances. AARP Membership — $12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. AARP VALUE & MEMBER BENEFITS See more Health & Wellness offers > See more Flights & Vacation Packages offers > See more Finances offers > See more Health & Wellness offers > SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS