Dubuque Drug Take Back Secures Over 300 Pounds of Medication and ‘Sharps’

Drugs have been a hot button issue for many years. Recently, the introduction of drugs like fentanyl have increased the awareness of the life altering consequences that come with use. That's a big reason why these national drug take back programs are so necessary. Dubuque recently completed its collection day and some of the numbers are astounding.

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On October 25th, 2025, the Dubuque Drug Task Force, in partnership with the Asbury Police Department and the Area Substance Abuse Council (ASAC), joined the nationwide DEA-sponsored National Take Back Day. The goal of the program is to provide a safe and secure method for disposing of old, expired, or unused prescription medications—as well as needles and other medical items that can pose serious risks if left unsecured.

During the event, 188.6 pounds of prescription and non-prescription medications were collected. Additionally, 139.0 pounds of sharps, including used syringes, were safely removed from circulation. Beyond the single-day effort, the prescription drop box located at the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center collected 201.89 pounds of medications between April and October alone. The total weight of removal so far this year is 529.49 pounds.

This effort is more than just about cleaning out medicine cabinets, it plays a direct role in preventing harm. Unused prescriptions are one of the most common sources of opioid misuse, particularly among teens and individuals struggling with pain management or addiction. A bottle of forgotten pills can easily become a dangerous temptation. Likewise, used needles carry significant risk. Reuse and sharing of syringes can spread disease, fuel addiction, and endanger both individuals and first responders.

Additionally, proper removal of medications keeps these drugs out of our water system. Flushing medications is never a good way of getting rid of drugs, especially opioid narcotics, which can return in our drinking water. Basically, wastewater treatment plants and septic systems are not designed to treat pharmaceutical waste, and the drugs often end up in our waterways. Flushing drugs can also lead to environmental contamination; as the drugs degrade, they begin to leach into the soil and even groundwater.

For those who missed the event, a permanent prescription drop box remains available in the front lobby of the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center at 770 Iowa Street, Dubuque. Even a small action like disposing of an old bottle of prescription meds, can make a meaningful difference in the safety and well-being of our community.