Disposing of prescription drugs safely

July 13, 2023

Left to right, Bob Cook, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Brian Webb, Gina Olheiser, and Brooke Anthony from Wichita Mountains Prevention Network, at the June 27 Drug Takeback Event held at Marlow First Life Center. Photo Submitted by Gina Olheiser

A drug-take back for prescription drugs was held in Marlow on June 27 with success, said Gina Olheiser, CBPS Coordinator with the Wichita Mountains Prevention Network based in Lawton. Olheiser oversees Stephens and Jefferson counties for the agency.

“We had people drop off 9 pounds of medication to be disposed of safely. We also gave away free lockboxes to those who needed them to safely store their medicine,” she said.

Brochure/rack cards that have opioid safety info on them as well as medication drop-off locations so people can take their medications in between take-back day events are available.

“Since we were not able to have a syringe drop-off option, we had a flyer with instructions on how to safely dispose of them in their home using an empty laundry detergent or juice container bottle,” Olheiser said. “We gave out 988 information as well which is the new suicide and crisis hotline number.”

Locations for safe drop-off in Stephens County are: Marlow Police Department, Duncan Police Department, Duncan Regional Hospital in the emergency room entrance, R&S #3 in Duncan, Stephens County Sheriff’s Office and Thompson’s Pharmacy in Comanche.

“If anyone in Stephen's County wants a free lockbox, they can call me at 580-439-4676,” Olheiser said.

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