LEE’S SUMMIT, MO – More than six million Americans misuse controlled prescription drugs, according to the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The study shows that a majority of abused prescriptions are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.  The National Drug Take-Back Day on April 27 addresses this crucial public safety and public health issue by helping prevent medication diversion, misuse and abuse.

The public can dispose of medications on Saturday, April 27, 2019 from 10 am – 2 pm at four Lee’s Summit locations.  Unwanted prescription, over-the-counter and animal medications will be accepted.  Needles and inhalers will not be accepted.  The service is anonymous and free. 

Sites include the Lee’s Summit Police Department, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and Places Restaurant at John Knox Village.  Lee’s Summit Medical Center will offer drive-through service so residents don’t have to leave their vehicle.  

Please note that Saint Luke’s East is not sponsoring a drive through location in April, but medications can be disposed of in the Saint Luke’s East Emergency Room drop box or at the nearby LSPD inside lobby location.

Since 2010, Lee’s Summit residents have properly disposed of more than 17,000 pounds of medication.  The local event is sponsored by Lee’s Summit CARES, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Lee’s Summit Police Department, and Lee’s Summit Water Department. 

Law enforcement officers will be on hand to accept medication at these Lee’s Summit locations:

·         Jackson County Sheriff’s Office:  4001 NE Lakewood Court

·         Lee’s Summit Police Department: 10 NE Tudor Road

·         Lee’s Summit Medical Center ER Entrance:  2100 SE Blue Parkway

·         Places Restaurant at John Knox Village:  1001 NW Chipman Rd

If residents can’t participate on April 27, they can drop off medications year-round at permanent medication drop boxes in the lobbies of the Lee’s Summit Police and Sheriff’s offices and in the Emergency Rooms of both Lee’s Summit hospitals.                  

Lee’s Summit CARES is a community coalition dedicated to preventing youth substance use and violence, promoting exemplary character and empowering positive parenting. For more information, visit www.LSCares.org. You may also follow Lee’s Summit CARES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat.