Mahoning County Public Health supplying community with drug disposal bags

The county’s public health and library departments collaborated to bring a safe drug disposal right to Mahoning County residents.

The Mahoning County Public Health Department announced starting this week, drug disposal bags are available to patrons at the local Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County locations.

They’re called Deterra Drug Disposal Bags, designed to get rid of unwanted medicines permanently.

What are Deterra Drug Disposal Bags?

Because they’re made of activated carbon, the Deterra drug pouches deactivate the unused medication placed inside with the help of some water.

According to Mercer University College of Pharmacy, the pouch “renders drugs inactive by absorption in the presence of water, which is simple and convenient for the patients” and medical professionals.

They’re endorsed by the DEA Educational Foundation and Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America for unused drug deactivation and disposal.

There are three basic steps:

1. Place unused medication inside pouch

2. Fill pouch halfway with water, then wait 30 seconds. It’s normal for it to start foaming.

3. Seal the pouch tightly, shake gently and dispose in normal trash.

Deactivation starts right away and the medication should be absorbed within eight to 12 hours.

They use plant-based packaging, which will break down faster and is more environmentally friendly than flushing pills down the toilet.

According to the website, the activated carbon adsorption helps prevent contaminating our water supply and landfills.

Why is proper disposal important?

Proper disposal of unneeded medications helps:

• Prevent children, pets, and other people from accidentally ingesting unused or expired medications.
• Prevent them from being misused or stolen.
• Keeps the medication out of our water and soil.

Where can you drop off medication?