FDA campaign encourages public to safely dispose of opioids

The Food and Drug Administration yesterday launched a campaign to help Americans understand the importance of removing unused prescription opioids from their homes and properly disposing of them. The Remove the Risk campaign includes free public service announcements, factsheets, social media posts and website badges that health care providers, news media and others can use to help combat the opioids crisis. “We know that many people who misuse prescription opioids report getting them from a friend or family member,” said Amy Abernethy, M.D., principal deputy commissioner at the FDA. “If every household removed prescription opioids once they’re no longer medically needed for their prescribed purpose, it would have a major impact on the opioid crisis’ hold on American families and communities.” Tomorrow is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, sponsored by the Drug Enforcement Administration, an opportunity for the public to safely dispose of unwanted or expired prescription pills at sites throughout the country.