JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — HCA Florida Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville is raising awareness about the dangers of prescription drug misuse and the importance of safe and proper disposal of unused or expired medications.
The hospital held an event from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday to mark National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Officials said 132 people attended the event, dropping off more than 380 pounds of unused or expired prescription medication that filled more than 11 boxes.
The event is part of the hospital's "Crush the Crisis" partnership with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and the DEA.
"Unfortunately when these medications get on the street a lot of times we are seeing a very high incidence in addiction rates and drug abuse rates," said Madison Spicer with HCA Florida Memorial Hospital.
Spicer said in 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported more than 107,000 drug overdose deaths.
Joel Schell was one of many people who stopped by to drop off unused medication.
"It takes five minutes, you could potentially be saving a life," he said.
Anyone unable to attend Saturday's event can visit floridapoisoncontrol.org to find nearby locations to drop off unused medications and pill bottles.