CHEROKEE, N.C. — The Cherokee Indian Hospital Authority (CIHA) is taking action to help the community safely dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted medications with a Drug Take Back Event scheduled for Wednesday, April 23 through Friday, April 25. Held in recognition of National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, this initiative promotes responsible medication disposal and aims to reduce the risk of misuse, accidental poisoning, and environmental contamination.
The event will feature both walk-up and drive-thru options for convenience:
Event Details:
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Wednesday, April 23 & Thursday, April 24
When: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: CIHA Rotunda (Inside)
Who: CIHA Pharmacy and Public Relations staff will be available to collect medications and provide educational materials, giveaways, and safe disposal information. -
Friday, April 25
When: 11:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Where: CIHA Rotunda Roundabout (Sidewalk) – Drive-Thru Option
What: Simply pull up to drop off medications without leaving your vehicle. PR and Pharmacy staff will be on hand with an info table, resources, and giveaways.
What You Can Bring:
All types of medications will be accepted — including over-the-counter drugs like Tylenol, prescription medications, expired prescriptions, and any unwanted or unused pills or tablets. No questions asked.
Why It Matters:
Improperly storing or disposing of medications can pose serious risks. Unused medications left in the home can be accidentally ingested by children or pets, or misused by others. Flushing medications or throwing them in the trash can contaminate waterways and harm local ecosystems. CIHA’s Drug Take Back Event provides a safe, secure, and environmentally sound way to get rid of medications — protecting your family, your community, and the land we share.