Project Medicine Drop
The abuse of prescription painkillers is every bit as dangerous and deadly as the abuse of illicit drugs such as heroin – and it is growing at epidemic rates.
Did You Know …
Two in five teenagers mistakenly believe prescription drugs are “much safer” than illegal drugs.
–U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration
In a growing trend, N.J. teens who abused prescription drugs went on to become addicted, and turned to heroin use.
–N.J. State Commission of Investigation
Each year, thousands of New Jerseyans enter addiction treatment programs due to prescription drug abuse.
-Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Admin.
For those who abuse and sell these drugs, the easiest way to obtain them is to raid the medicine cabinets of relatives and acquaintances.
Everyone must take responsibility to help stop the abuse and diversion of prescription drugs. This includes law enforcement and regulatory agencies, doctors and pharmacists, pharmaceutical companies –and everyday citizens.
Project Medicine Drop is an important part of New Jersey’s solution to this problem, and the Union City Police Department has joined this important initiative.
You can now dispose of your unused and expired household medications, safely and securely, at any time: 24/7/365 at the Union City Police Department, 3715 Palisade Ave, Union City, NJ 07087. The special Project Medicine Dropbox looks like a mailbox but it is clearly marked.
Please be aware that Project Medicine Drop boxes ONLY accept household medications, and ONLY accept solid materials such as pills and capsules.
If you have liquid medications that you need to dispose of, please follow the guidelines below:
Make the medications unattractive and difficult to get to, by mixing them with coffee grounds or kitty litter. Pour the mixture into a sealable bag, coffee can or other sealable container.
Before disposing of a medicine container, be sure to scratch out any prescription information such as your name and address, in order to protect your identity.
To learn more call (800) 242-5846 or visit the NJ Consumer Affairs website.