Safe medication disposal now available at Medical City Decatur
Decatur, Texas – Medical City Decatur has made it easier for the community to dispose of unused or expired medications with the installation of a new drug take back box.
The secure drop box, located in the main lobby of Medical City Decatur, is available to the public and accepts most prescription and over-the-counter medications. The service helps prevent drug misuse and supports environmental safety by ensuring proper disposal.
“Unused medications left in homes can pose a serious risk to families and the community,” says Medical City Decatur Pharmacy Director Kristyn Langford, PharmD. “This drug take back box offers a simple and secure solution to ensure healthier tomorrows for our community.”
The initiative is part of Medical City Healthcare’s and HCA Healthcare’s year-round “Crush the Crisis” program. Permanent drug take back boxes are located inside 15 Medical City Healthcare hospitals. The permanent boxes are compliant with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations and can be accessed free of charge, any day of the year.
Additionally, the Decatur Police Department plans to participate in the DEA National Drug Take Back Day on Sat., Oct. 25 and has chosen Medical City Decatur as the collection site. The event will feature a convenient, drive-thru collection drop off at the hospital, where law enforcement officers will be on hand to assist with safe medication disposal and provide educational resources.
“We’re honored to work alongside Medical City Decatur and the DEA to make it easier for residents to safely dispose of medications,” says Decatur Police Chief Delvon Campbell. “Together, we’re creating more opportunities for safe medication disposal and raising awareness about responsible practices that benefit our community.”
Accepted Items for Safe Disposal:
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter medications
- Medicated ointments
- Lotions or drops
- Liquid medication (in leak-proof containers)
- Vape cartridges (without batteries)
- Vitamins and supplements
- Pet medications
Items Not Accepted for Disposal:
- Needles or sharps
- Syringes
- Lancets
- Illegal drugs