The Sconi

MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today that Wisconsin ranked second in the nation for the most prescription medications collected during the spring 2024 Drug Take Back event. The state collected 55,122 lbs. of unwanted medications this spring.

“Because of Wisconsinites who safely disposed of their unwanted medications, Wisconsin’s remarkable success with the Drug Take Back program has continued,” said Attorney General Kaul. “Thanks to everyone who helped make the safe disposal of more than 55,000 more pounds of unused medication possible.”

Since the inception of Drug Take Back in 2010 under the leadership of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Wisconsin has collected a total of 1,257,161 lbs. of unwanted medications. The state ranks third nationally for total medications collected since inception, following Texas with 1,424,295 lbs. and California with 1,404,998 lbs. Nationwide, Drug Take Back events have collected a total of 18,647,417 lbs. of unwanted medications.

The DEA conducts two Drug Take Back days annually—one in the spring and one in the fall. The DOJ collaborates with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) to organize and promote these events across Wisconsin. Drug Take Back provides a safe and responsible means for disposal while educating communities about potential abuse and consequences related to improper storage and disposal.

Drug Take Back Day is supported by Fuchs Trucking, Reworld, the Wisconsin State Patrol, Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, Waukesha County Sheriff’s Office, and various local law enforcement agencies.

Although Drug Take Back Day occurs twice a year officially, over 490 permanent drug disposal boxes are available year-round at law enforcement agencies, hospitals, pharmacies, and health clinics throughout Wisconsin. To locate a nearby permanent drug disposal box visit: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/opioids/permanent-drug-drop-boxes.htm.