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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Spokane Valley

The Valley Precinct wants your drugs

OxyContin pills are arranged for a photo at a pharmacy in Montpelier, Vt. on Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013. Drug overdose deaths rose for the 11th straight year, federal data show, and most of them were accidents involving addictive painkillers despite growing attention to risks from these medicines. As in previous recent years, opioid drugs � which include OxyContin and Vicodin � were the biggest problem, contributing to 3 out of 4 medication overdose deaths. (Toby Talbot / Associated Press)
OxyContin pills are arranged for a photo at a pharmacy in Montpelier, Vt. on Tuesday, Feb. 19, 2013. Drug overdose deaths rose for the 11th straight year, federal data show, and most of them were accidents involving addictive painkillers despite growing attention to risks from these medicines. As in previous recent years, opioid drugs � which include OxyContin and Vicodin � were the biggest problem, contributing to 3 out of 4 medication overdose deaths. (Toby Talbot / Associated Press)

The Spokane Valley Police Precinct is giving everyone a chance to get rid of their old drugs on Sept. 27. Drop off expired, unused and otherwise not needed medication between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Precinct, 12710 E. Sprague Ave.

Deputy Chris Johnston said the department hosts a drug take back event twice a year.
"Last time we collected more than 400 pounds of medication," Johnston said, adding that together with a similar event in Spokane County a truckload of medication was collected in one day.
"We collect the medication for proper disposal. Essentially we have it destroyed," Johnston said. 
No ID is needed and no questions will be asked, no matter which medication people show up with, and the collection site accepts both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. The only items not welcome are liquids (including cough syrups), needles and any medication that may be injected. 
"This is a way for people to get rid of old medication in a safe manner," Johnston said. A healthcare provider or pharmacist can advice on how to get rid of needles and liquids. Questions? Call the Valley Precinct front desk at (509) 477-3300.



Pia Hallenberg
Pia Hallenberg joined The Spokesman-Review in 2004. She is currently a reporter for the City Desk covering Spokane Valley city hall and community news. She also writes news features about people and events.

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