DOWNEY - Nearly 300 pounds of prescription drugs were collected at a drug take-back event Sept. 29 outside the Downey Police Department.Downey Police, with help from the DEA, collected the expired, unused or unwanted prescription drugs - along with many potentially dangerous syringes - for proper disposal. "This program addresses a vital public safety and public health issue," Downey officials said in a statement. "Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse." According to a 2009 survey, more Americans abuse prescription drugs than the number of those using cocaine, hallucinogens and heroin combined. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets. Another take-back event is being planned for next year. For more information on how to properly dispose of prescription medicine, go to fda.gov or call (800) 882-9539.

********** Published: October 11, 2012 - Volume 11 - Issue 26