Help protect the environment, dispose of medications properly

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Briana Jones
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The National Drug Take Back Day gives Team Aviano members an opportunity to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter medications at the Exchange, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"This program is important because it helps the community keep an eye on their current medications, while also showing them the importance of not only properly storing their medication, but disposing of it as well," said Staff Sgt. Juan Garzon 31st MDSS pharmaceutical logistics NCO in charge.

Due to changing health conditions, drug allergies and adverse drug reactions, many people end up with partially used or expired medications sitting in their cabinets.

The one-day program is an opportunity to educate people on the convenient, safe and responsible way of disposing prescription drugs, while also addressing a public safety and health issue.

All medications will be accepted and can be dropped off in the same bottle it was received in. Individuals should ensure all personal information is blacked out or removed.

"It's an opportunity for absolutely anyone to come on base and get rid of unused or unwanted medication," said Maj. Timothy McDowell, 31st Medical Support Squadron pharmacy flight commander. "I encourage everyone to drop off anything they are not currently using to reduce the risk of substance abuse."

The National Drug Take Back Day is not the only opportunity to dispose of unused medications. Most Italian pharmacies, known as "Farmacia," have disposal bins located within the building that read "Farmaci Scaduti," where expired, unwanted and used medications can be dropped off.

The program gives Team Aviano a safe way to dispose of unwanted medication and helps us be good guests to our Italian host. Improperly disposing of medications in Italy is illegal and has the potential of harming the environment.

"These chemicals will pollute the environment and can be found not only in the water or soil but also in the animals and humans that are part of the biological chain," said Gabriele Scandola, 31st Civil Engineer Squadron environmental protection specialist. "The importance of collecting and properly disposing of this waste contributes significantly to the protection of the environment and the human health."

Individuals should take this opportunity to assess where their medication is being kept. Medication should not be kept in the bathroom, as the moisture and heat created could cause medicine to lose its effectiveness. Bedrooms, closets and drawers are good alternate locations to safely store medications. Families with children should choose storage locations that will remain out of reach.

For further information about proper disposal of medications, visit the Food and Drug Administration, the Environmental Protection Agency website, or check with the base pharmacy.