October 21, 2026
DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) is encouraging Iowans to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, Saturday, October 24, 2026.
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and anonymous way to dispose of unused or expired prescription medications, while raising awareness about the risks of opioid misuse and the dangers associated with other prescription drugs.
Twice a year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) partners with local law enforcement agencies and pharmacies to collect leftover prescription and over-the-counter medication safely and responsibly. During the collection in April, Iowans turned in over 6,871 pounds of unneeded medicine. To date, Iowans have safely disposed of over 118 tons of unused medications at these events.
“Properly disposing of unneeded medication helps prevent misuse and accidental overdose,” says Susie Sher, Bureau Chief of ODCP. “By taking unused medications to a designated collection site, Iowans are doing their part to keep our communities healthy and safe.”
Saturday’s events are 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at designated sites across Iowa. The DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should be securely sealed in their original container. Syringes, sharps, or illicit drugs are not collected. As part of the National Prescription Drug Take Back program, the DEA also collects vaping devices and e-cigarettes with their batteries removed. Find a site near you.
On a year-round basis, people can take excess medications to one of Iowa’s 400 permanent Prescription Drug Take Back locations. Iowa Take Back details, including education information and collection sites.
Iowans needing help with drug using behaviors or mental health concerns can go to the Iowa Department of Health and Human Service’s YourLifeIowa.org.
ABOUT THE IOWA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Iowa Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the largest law enforcement agency in the state. It includes seven divisions and several bureaus, all working together with local, state, and federal government agencies and the private sector to keep Iowa a safe place by following our core values: leadership, integrity, professionalism, courtesy, service, and protection. Divisions within the Iowa DPS: Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Fire Marshal Division, Iowa Division of Intelligence and Fusion Center, Professional Development and Support Services Division, and Administrative Services Division. The Department of Public Safety is led by the Commissioner who is appointed by the Governor.
Iowa Department of Public Safety
215 E. 7th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
215 E 7th St
Des Moines, IA 50319