Drop off unused prescription drugs this Saturday at Riverview Health

In honor of National Drug Take Back Day, the Hamilton County Council on Alcohol & Other Drugs (HCCOAOD) will hold a take-back event from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Oct. 24, in the far east parking lot of Riverview Health in Noblesville. The drop off location is directly across from Federal Hill Commons on State Road 32.

Greer

“Most people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family, friends, and acquaintances,” HCCOAOD Executive Director Monica Greer said. “We know prevention starts at home. The simple step of clearing out medications that are no longer needed makes our homes safer, prevents prescription drug misuse, and can help save lives.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 69,973 people died of drug overdoses in the United States last year, a decrease of almost 14 percent from 2024. With close to 5,000 collection sites nationwide, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, along with its law enforcement partners, have removed more than 10,500 tons of medication from circulation since the inception of National Drug Take Back Day in 2010.

“The only safe medications are ones prescribed by a trusted medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist,” Greer said. “Old and unwanted medicine too often becomes a gateway to addiction. Events like these are a critical effort to curb the historic surge in U.S. overdoses.”

Hamilton County residents are encouraged to drop off their expired or unused medications and vape devices. No liquids, sharps, or needles will be accepted. For those who cannot make it, there are opportunities to safely dispose of unneeded medications at local pharmacies, hospitals, and police departments throughout the year.

Kroger in Carmel taking part in National Drug Take Back Day

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, you can drop off your unused, unwanted, and expired prescription drugs at the Kroger store in Carmel, located at 1217 S. Range Line Road.

“We’re proud to play a part in making the safe choice the easy choice,” said Birgitta Monson, Health Leader of Kroger Central Division. “National Prescription Drug Take Back Day gives our communities a convenient space to dispose of unused or expired drugs, promoting safer environments at home and aligning with Kroger Health’s vision to help people live healthier lives.”

Law enforcement officers will be on site outside the store to accept the unwanted pills, liquids, gels, and patches. Acceptance of liquids, gels and patches may vary by location. None will be accepted inside stores.