For those who want to safely dispose of outdated or unused prescription medication, Russellville Police Chief Chris Hargett said this weekend would be the time to do just that.

The Russellville Police Department be participating in the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s 8^th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at CVS Pharmacy in Russellville.

Russellville Police Capt. Mike Prince said officers will be available to assist residents who want to drop off any unwanted prescription medication so it can be disposed of properly.

According to the DEA, studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including the home medicine cabinet.

Since Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing of unused medicines by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash pose potential safety and health hazards, events like these are the safest way to dispose of these pills.

“Prescription medication abuse is a big problem, and properly disposing of these medications is a good way to help prevent these types of drug crimes,” Hargett said.

“If prescription medications are taken out of the home, that lessens the chance for someone to misuse or abuse these products.”

Last October, DEA officials said Americans turned in 324 tons of prescription drugs at over 5,600 sites operated by the DEA and its thousands of state and local law enforcement partners.

In its seven previous Take Back events, DEA and its partners have taken in more than 1,700 tons of pills.

Only pills and other solids, like patches, can be brought to the collection sites. Liquids and needles or other sharps will not be accepted.