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Handle your medications with care! Keep them secure.
While illegal drug use has diminished nationwide in recent years, prescription drug abuse among teens has been growing. Many teens believe that prescription drugs are safer than "street drugs" like cocaine and heroin. 70% of children who abuse prescription drugs admit to getting them from family and friends.
Commonly Abused Over The Counter &
Prescription Drugs
Cold/Cough medications
Depressants
Stimulants (Adderal, Concerta, Ritalin)
Painkillers (OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin)
Know What Medications Are in Your Home
Inventory the OTC (over the counter) and prescription medications in your home every six months, or more frequently if you suspect abuse. Dispose of meds that have expired or are left over from a previous illness or condition.
Lock Up Your Medications
Keep all OTC and prescription medications in one location in your home.
Store them in a combination safe, locked cabinet, or locked drawer, not your bathroom medicine cabinet. Childproof lock boxes are available at hardware stores.
Dispose of Medications Properly
~When possible, take unused or expired prescription drugs to a Take Back Event or Prescription Drug Drop Box.
*Ellington has a drop box at the Resident State Troopers' Office at 33 Arbor Way*
In addition, Ellington will participate in National Drug Take Back day on Saturday, April 27th from 10am to 2pm at their office.
~Do not flush medications down the toilet or sink.
~Keep them in their original containers
~Make them less appealing. Mix drugs with hot water to dissolve and add an undesirable substance such as coffee grounds or kitty litter.
~Contain, seal and dispose. Place the mixture into a container, tape shut and dispose in the regular garbage.
Ellington Take Back Night!
Resource Fair - March 28th
6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Ellington Senior Center
Ellington Resident State Troopers will be there all evening to take back your old and unused prescription drugs.