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Take Back Day Gets Rid Of Unwanted Meds

TALLAHASSEE (CBS4) – Prevention of prescription drug abuse, and accidental ingestion, is all part of the plan behind National Prescription Drug "Take-Back Day".

On Saturday, officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, encouraged Floridians to unload any expired or unwanted medicines. The service was free and anonymous--no questions asked.

Organized by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the goal was to rid homes of unused medications in an effort to prevent accidental ingestion, misuse, and abuse.

The sixth annual event took place Saturday at various locations.

Since the start of the "Take Back Day", Floridians have disposed of approximately 32 tons of prescription drugs.

According to Special Agent Mark R. Trouville of the DEA, ""Florida has come a long way since 2009 when the state was considered ground zero for prescription drug abuse."

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