Medication drop-off set Saturday at Sarasota Sheriff's Office, Police Department

Residents can dispose of unwanted medications from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday at the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office headquarters on Cattleridge Boulevard or two locations in the city of Sarasota. 

The opportunity, conducted in conjunction with the federal Drug Enforcement Agency, is intended to address public safety, public health, and environmental issues. Studies show that most abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from home medicine cabinets, the sheriff’s office said.

Medication turn-in is anonymous. Pills and capsules are accepted, but liquids or needles are not.

Additionally, the sheriff’s office maintains a drop box at its main lobby at 6010 Cattleridge Blvd., open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Several other local law enforcement agencies also have permanent drop boxes and will be participating in the event.

Such events as Saturday’s are intended to raise awareness of the need to properly dispose of unwanted or out-of-date medications.In Sarasota, drop offs are available at Sarasota Police Department, 2099 Adams Lane, or at the Caring Collective, 1750 17th St.

For additional permanent drop box sites, call 1-800-882-9539 or click here.