Greenville families looking to clear out medicine cabinets have a convenient, safe option on Oct. 24. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Bon Secours St. Francis Millenium campus at 2 Innovation Drive will host a prescription drug take‑back collection, part of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take‑Back Day.
Why the event matters
Improper disposal of prescription medications can lead to accidental ingestion, misuse, and environmental contamination. The DEA warns that flushing drugs down toilets or sinks risks polluting groundwater and drinking water supplies. By providing a secure drop‑off point, Bon Secours helps protect both loved ones and the broader community.
What participants can expect
In addition to collecting unwanted, unused, or expired medicines, the event will feature informational materials about the potential for medication abuse. “Cleaning out your medicine cabinet may not seem like a big deal, but it can make a real difference in protecting your loved ones and your community,” said Matthew Timmons, clinical pharmacy specialist with Bon Secours St. Francis, in a statement about the event. “By removing expired or unneeded prescriptions from your home, you’re helping prevent misuse, accidental ingestion and environmental harm.”
How the program fits into a larger effort
The DEA reports that the most recent Take‑Back Day in April collected 321 tons of medications across 4,417 sites nationwide. In South Carolina, the October 2025 take‑back day yielded 186,608 pounds of medication from 46 sites, according to the state Department of Public Health. Greenville’s participation adds to this statewide momentum, offering a local venue for residents to contribute to the collective goal of reducing stray pharmaceuticals.
Additional disposal tips
Before heading to the drop‑off site, residents should:
- Remove personal information from prescription labels.
- Keep medications in their original containers, if possible.
- Do not crush pills or mix them with other waste.
For those unable to attend, the DEA’s online locator (dea.gov/takebackday#collection‑locator) lists other collection sites across South Carolina and the nation.
Community impact
Events like this reinforce Greenville’s commitment to public‑health safety and responsible stewardship of the environment. By partnering with a trusted health system, the city provides a practical solution that aligns with family values and the desire to keep neighborhoods safe for children and seniors alike.
For more information about the Greenville take‑back event or to find additional locations, visit the DEA’s website or contact Bon Secours St. Francis directly.
Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.
