Missouri American Water supports DEA's prescription drug collection program

Missouri American Water is providing information about the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration's National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day to more than 150,000 households across Missouri through their water bills. DEA's prescription drug collection events will be held in collaboration with local police departments on Saturday, April 30.

Missouri American Water teams in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Mexico, Jefferson City and St. Joseph worked in collaboration with local law enforcement to promote the program through a brochure included in local water bills.

The program is anonymous. Prescription and over-the-counter solid dosage medications, like tablets and capsules are accepted. Liquids in their original, sealed containers will be accepted. Needles will not be accepted and illicit substances, such as marijuana, are not part of this initiative.

"Historically, unneeded medications have been flushed down the drain or thrown in the trash. Prescription drug collection events give all of us an environmentally responsible disposal method," said Cindy Hebenstreit, Director of Water Quality and Environmental Management. "We support DEA's program as a means to reduce the risk of drug abuse, and preserve the quality of water in our rivers and streams."