Guide 06
Clear out old medicines on Take Back Day, October 24
Short answerOn Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time, thousands of sites take unused or expired prescription drugs for free, no questions asked. Find one with the DEA site finder. If you miss it, use a year-round drop box or follow FDA steps for safe home disposal.
Sources checked . About 1 minute to read. If this page and an official source disagree, follow the official source.
Official sources
- DEA Diversion Control Division, National Prescription Drug Take Back Daydeadiversion.usdoj.govEvent date and hours, October 24, 2026, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- DEA collection site finderapps2.deadiversion.usdoj.govSearch by ZIP code or city and state. Sites are added daily.
- Get Smart About Drugs (DEA), 2026 Take Back Daygetsmartaboutdrugs.govEvent happens twice a year at locations nationwide.
- FDA, Drug Disposal Optionsfda.govYear-round take back options and how to dispose of medicines at home.
Common questions
When and where is Take Back Day?
Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time. DEA lists thousands of collection sites. Enter your ZIP code in the DEA site finder, and check back, since new sites are added daily.
Does it cost anything or ask for ID?
No. DEA describes the service as free and anonymous, with no questions asked.
What can I bring?
Unused or expired prescription medicines in pills or patches. Collection sites generally cannot take needles or other sharps. Check with the site if you are unsure about a specific item.
What if I miss October 24?
Many pharmacies and police stations have year-round drop boxes. The FDA drug disposal page explains how to find one. If none is near you, the FDA gives steps for safe disposal in household trash, and a short list of medicines that should be flushed instead.
Why bother?
Old medicines in the home can be taken by mistake, especially by children or pets, or misused. Clearing them out lowers that risk.