Brandon Residents Collect 624 Pounds of Expired Medications During National Take Back Day Event

Brandon Residents Turn in 624 Pounds of Expired Medications During National Take Back Day

Brandon, Florida—On October 28, 2023, volunteers from HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and the Hillsborough County Anti-Drug Alliance collaborated with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) for the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: Crush the Crisis event. This semiannual initiative, held in April and October, aims to provide residents with a safe and responsible means of disposing of expired or unused prescription medications.

Event Insights and Community Response

At this recent event at Brandon Hospital, community members turned in a staggering 624 pounds of prescription drugs, with over half of that total—390 pounds—collected at this location alone. The enthusiastic response highlights the community’s awareness of the dangers posed by unused medications and their commitment to keeping homes safe.

Speaking Out Against the Opioid Crisis

Among those addressing the audience were clinicians from Brandon Hospital, representatives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and State Attorney Suzy Lopez. A poignant moment came when Cindy Grant shared her personal story about her son, Dan, who tragically lost his life at just 19 years old after an accidental overdose involving OxyContin. Family and friends remember Dan as a dedicated Boy Scout, athlete, and a natural peacemaker.

“His story serves as a powerful reminder that it only takes one time for someone to misuse prescription medication,” Grant said, underscoring the event’s importance. Studies indicate that the most common way individuals access prescription drugs for recreational use is through family members’ medicine cabinets. Grant’s heart-wrenching account aimed to resonate with those present, urging them to participate in the drug take-back efforts.

Health Perspectives and Safety Awareness

Dr. Michael Haynes, the Children’s emergency medical director at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital, emphasized the significance of the event. He stated, “Medications are meant to heal and support our health, but when they are misused, they can lead to addiction, overdose, and devastating consequences for individuals and families.” Dr. Haynes also noted that children are particularly vulnerable; startling statistics reveal that one in every 250 two-year-olds is treated in emergency departments due to unintentional medication overdoses.

The Drug Take Back event serves as a preventive measure, ensuring that both adults and children are protected from the dangers of leftover prescription medications lurking in homes.

Looking Forward: Continued Efforts

The next Prescription Drug Take Back event is scheduled for April 2025, with the exact date to be announced as the date approaches. Such events are crucial in promoting a culture of responsibility around medications and in combating the opioid crisis within the community.

Residents of Brandon are encouraged to mark their calendars for this future event. HCA Florida Brandon Hospital is located at 119 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon, and for further information, individuals can visit the hospital’s website.