RAF MILDENHALL, England-- -- RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath will host National Prescription Take-Back Day, Sept. 17 to 19 at various locations at both installations.
The drives will take place on Sept. 17 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Exchange on RAF Mildenhall, Sept. 18 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the RAF Lakenheath Base Exchange and Sept. 19 from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. at the RAF Lakenheath dining facility.
The event provides a way for community members to surrender expired, unwanted or unused pharmaceutical substances or controlled medications to law enforcement officers for destruction, with no questions asked.
In addition to being able to turn in medications that have expired or are no longer being utilized, educational information will be available on how to dispose of medications appropriately and pharmacy personnel will be available to answer questions or address concerns.
According to the 2009 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than seven million Americans abuse prescription drugs.
Every day, on average, 2,500 teens use them to get high for the first time, according to the Partnership for a Drug-Free America. Studies show a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet.
During the first national take-back day initiative Oct. 2, 2010, the American public turned in more than 242,000 pounds of prescription drugs for safe and proper disposal. More than 4,000 take-back sites were available in all 50 states.
For more information on the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day or drug safety, contact the RAF Lakenheath Pharmacy at DSN 226-8347 or commercial at 01638-528347.