Wegmans stores in five states will be collecting unused and unwanted prescription medications on Saturday, in an effort to curb dangerous misuse of drugs such as opioids.
Collections will be held at store pharmacies in 52 Wegmans supermarkets, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“The devastation of the opioid epidemic is far reaching, affecting communities across our markets and the nation,” said John Carlo, Wegmans senior vice president of pharmacy. “It’s more important than ever to remove unused prescription drugs from the home as the first step in preventing abuse. With the help of local law enforcement, we’re able to host these drop-off events, increasing awareness of this crisis and empowering community members to be part of the solution.”
Removing old prescriptions from homes can help prevent accidental poisonings or unauthorized use or abuse of the drugs. The Saturday drop-off event will accept only pills and patches, and not sharps or liquids.
Not every Wegmans store is participating in the free event, so consumers may want to check with their local supermarket before arriving with medications. In Rochester, participating Wegmans stores are Brockport, Calkins Road, Chili-Paul, Eastway, Holt Road, Irondequoit, Latta Road, Lyell Avenue and Pittsford.
A full listing is available online.
Law enforcement officers will be present at each collection spot, but drop-offs will be anonymous with no questions asked.
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