Kauaʻi residents are being urged to clean out their medicine cabinets and safely dispose of unused or expired medications during National Drug Take Back Day.
The Kaua’i Police Department, in partnership with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, will host a free, anonymous drive-thru collection event on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at police headquarters in Līhuʻe.
Officials said residents can drop off unwanted medications without leaving their vehicles, and no questions asked.
Accepted items include tablets, capsules, liquids, patches, and other prescription and over-the-counter medications. Vape or e-cigarette devices will only be accepted if batteries are removed. Needles and syringes will not be collected.
Authorities added that keeping unused medications at home can pose safety risks, including accidental ingestion or misuse by someone other than the intended patient.
Improper disposal — such as flushing medications or throwing them in the trash — can also harm the environment.
During the county’s past take-back event, more than 600 pounds of medications were collected. For residents unable to attend, officials said a permanent, anonymous medication drop box is available year-round at the Kauaʻi Police Department in Līhuʻe.
Drug Take Back Day is part of a nationwide initiative led by the DEA. Residents can click here to learn more.
