The Iroquois County Sheriff’s Department has partnered with the Illinois Sheriff’s Association in the P2D2 drug disposal program to collect unused or outdated prescription or over the counter medication.
What is P2D2? It is the Prescription Pill and Drug Disposal Program, a collaborative effort between communities, local pharmacies, police departments, hospitals, city officials, students and more. According to the website, https://p2d2program.wordpress.com/about/history/ the purpose of the program is to educate the public about the harm done to the environment and the misuse and abuse of pharmaceuticals due to the current prescription and non-prescription drug disposal practices worldwide.
Why is the Program Important? Many pharmaceuticals are getting past our waste water treatment plants and getting into our drinking water. Scientists with the United States Geological Society conducted a study of over 130 rivers, streams, and other waterways in the U.S. and found the following pharmaceuticals in over 80 percent of those tested:
1. Antibiotics 2. Anti-depressants 3. Birth control pills 4. Seizure medication 5. Cancer treatments 6. Pain killers 7. Tranquilizers 8. Cholesterol-lowering compounds.
The program's mission is to provide communities with a proper method of pharmaceutical disposal that effectively reduces the misuse and abuse of pharmaceuticals, as well as, ensures the quality of our water and wildlife for future generations.
The collection point (green metal box) is located in the lobby of the Iroquois County Courthouse located at 550 S. 10th St. Watseka, IL. 60970. You can drop off any type of prescription medication or over the counter medication at the courthouse Monday through Friday 8:30AM to 4:30PM or at the West door of the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Department 24 hours a day 7 days a week. You do not need an identification to dispose of prescription medication. The only exception is no syringes, liquids, inhalers, ointments or lotions will be collected.
For more information, contact Investigator Clint Perzee at the Iroquois County Sheriff’s Department by calling 815-432-6992.
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