NEW WEBSITE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF UNUSED MEDICATION:
des.nh.gov/organization/divisions/water/dwgb/dwspp/medsafety/index.htm


As part of our mission to improve access to comprehensive substance abuse prevention strategies, and as a result of increased use of prescription drugs in our region and statewide, Allies in Substance Abuse Prevention has formed the Prescription Drug Taskforce.  We are currently partnering with the Attorney General’s office, Drug Enforcement Agency, State Poison Control, NH Bureau of Liquor Enforcement, and others to create “Take Back” locations in our region for unused medication.  As protocols are developed and designated locations are in place, we will continue to update this website with information.  We are currently working with the Department of Environmental Services in NH to develop protocols that are safe for both the environment and our communities.  The Prescription Drug Taskforce meets monthly.  For more information, please contact Cyndi Desrosiers.

Drug deaths were down last year, but it is too early to tell whether that is a blip or the beginning of a downward trend.  Deaths, however, are just the tip of the iceberg.  By all accounts, prescription drug abuse continues to rise and it is the living abusers and those who misuse who are causing a multitude of societal problems such as increased illness, lost time from work, vehicle and work and other accidents, family or social problems, and increased crimes. Click here to download a Power Point presentation examining the fatalities of prescription drug abuse by Dr. Andrew, Chief Medical Examiner for NH. Viewing this presentation requires the Microsoft Power Point Viewer, available for download by clicking here.

For more information on identifying medication and to learn how to dispose of medication properly, visit the Northern New England Poison Control Center or give them a call at: 1-800-222-1222.