Texas to Host Rx Take Back Day October 24
Local collection sites will accept unused prescription medications to prevent potential opioid misuse across the state.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Live Poll
Do you make it a practice to regularly dispose of unused or expired prescription medications?
On October 24, 2026, Texas will participate in the 31st national Rx Take Back Day to collect expired or unneeded medications. The event aims to keep potentially addictive drugs out of the wrong hands and reduce the risk of misuse.
Why it matters
Texas currently reports some of the highest rates of prescription opioid misuse among various age groups, making the proper disposal of leftover medication a public safety priority. This initiative helps remove accessible substances from homes to curb future dependency.
The Texas opioid dispensing rate dropped from 42.3 per 100 people in 2019 to 30.5 in 2024, according to state health data. Officials have confirmed that at least 12 collection sites are operating across Travis, Hays, and Williamson counties.
The details
Local law enforcement agencies in participating counties will host sites from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accept tablets, capsules, patches, and liquid medications. These designated sites will not accept sharps, syringes, or illicit drugs.
Timeline
The 31st national Rx Take Back Day takes place on October 24, 2026.
Collection sites operate from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the day of the event.
Health Landscape
This event serves as a public outreach component of the Controlled Substances Act, aiming to limit the supply of diverted prescription drugs. By facilitating safe disposal, the initiative marks a departure from traditional pharmacy-only return programs by utilizing local law enforcement.
Residents can improve household safety by clearing out medicine cabinets of expired or unused prescriptions. Participants should ensure no syringes or needles are included in their drop-off bags at the collection locations.
The takeaway
Proper disposal of medications prevents unused drugs from becoming a source for substance misuse within the home. Families are encouraged to audit their medicine cabinets and utilize this single-day opportunity for secure disposal.
Further reading
For more information on state-wide efforts, visit the Substance Abuse section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KXAN.
Live Poll
Do you make it a practice to regularly dispose of unused or expired prescription medications?
