Chesco drug take-back event yields more than 500 lbs of prescription drugs

An annual drug take-back program run by a state representative more than doubled the amout of drugs collected at last year's event, officials said.

The recycling, shredding and drug take-back event, hosted each year by State Rep. Duane Milne, encourages residents to drop off unwanted appliances and electronics, scrap paper and unused prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Milne's event this year, held on April 27, yielded nearly 575 pounds of meds -- compared to just 200 pounds last year.

Since prescription medications carry such potential for abuse, events like Milne's help residents dispose of unused or expired drugs safely. Drug Enforcement Administration events held across the country on April 27 -- otherwise known as National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day -- yielded a combined 371 tons of medication.

Milne's event also collected 30,500 pounds of electronics and applicances and 18,275 pounds of paper. Used cell phones were donated to a local women's shelter. Used eyeglasses -- 380 pairs -- went to the local Lions' Club.