The Hill Air Force Base Drug Take-Back event held April 28 took a total of 168 pounds of expired or unneeded medication out of circulation, said Staff Sgt. Iesha Edwards, 75th Medical Support Squadron. "Of that total, 18 pounds were controlled narcotics."
As a result, those controlled narcotics -- prescription medications -- are no longer a potential hazard for young children and unauthorized or accidental use.
Krystal Labonte, medical clinic pharmacist, volunteered at the Base Commissary to help sort the dropped off medications, just one of approximately 40 to 50 volunteers from 75th Medical Group who contributed their efforts to ensure the event's success.
Labonte explained the sorting process and noted the ultimate destination of the accumulated drugs would be into the Drug Enforcement Agency's hands to dispose of them properly.
"We're just trying to make this a safer neighborhood by taking these medications from individuals in a safe manner," she said.
Approximately 20 volunteers from security forces participated in the event including a military working dog and his handler.
For more information on the proper way to dispose of expired or unneeded prescription or over-the-counter medications visit the website at www.useonlyasdirected.org.
