Old prescription drugs accepted today at mall, hospital

Woodbridge, Va. –– Going to Potomac Mills mall today? Take some old, unused prescription medication with you.

The outlet mall in Woodbridge, and the Stafford Hospital Center off U.S. 1 in Stafford, are two of more than 75 locations in Virginia where residents today can drop off unused prescription medications, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., as part of the first-ever National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

The initiative is designed to raise awareness of, and curb prescription drug abuse, officials said.

Those who turn in prescriptions will remain anonymous, and are encouraged to take over-the-counter drugs mix them with old coffee grounds or kitty litter, place them into a nondescript plastic bag or an empty can and then bring them into the drop-off location.

“Drug abuse is directly related to increased crime rates, overdose deaths and emergency room visits. In Virginia, drug deaths are comparable to the number of traffic fatalities each year. We want to change the equation by taking preventative steps, including encouraging Virginians to get rid of old medications” said Gov. Robert F. McDonnell. “People should not hold on to expired or unused medications, particularly in homes with children, teens and seniors which are especially vulnerable to this danger.”

In addition to the outlet mall, the Stafford sheriff’s office will also take back prescription medication at the Stafford Hospital Center on U.S. 1.

Intra-venous solutions, injectables, needles, marijuana, methamphetamines and other illicit substances are not considered to be part of the take-back initiative.