On Saturday, April 26, 2025, residents of Lincoln County will once again have the opportunity to safely dispose of expired, unused, and unwanted medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. This vital community event will take place in two convenient locations from 10 AM to 2 PM:
- Caliente Fire Department (970 Front St., Caliente, NV)
- Panaca Town Center (1005 Main St., Panaca, NV)
Hosted in partnership with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, these events aim to reduce the risk of prescription drug misuse, accidental ingestion, and environmental harm caused by improper disposal.
Why Drug Take Back Day Matters
Unused or expired medications sitting in cabinets at home may seem harmless, but they pose a significant threat. They can be accidentally ingested by children or pets, misused by others, or improperly discarded in ways that contaminate water supplies and harm wildlife.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) established National Prescription Drug Take Back Day as a nationwide effort to address the growing opioid epidemic and prescription drug abuse crisis. Events like these provide a safe, anonymous, and responsible way to dispose of medications — and they’re a simple yet powerful way for individuals to make a difference in their community.
The message is clear: “Don’t be the dealer.” Disposing of your unused or expired medication helps ensure it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.
A County-Wide Commitment to Prevention
Both Panaca and Caliente events are supported through federal and state grant programs focused on substance use prevention and recovery services. Funding is made possible by the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS 433.712 through 433.744), and by the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant provided by the Nevada State Department of Health and Human Services.
Additional support comes from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and the Bureau of Justice Assistance, which are working with community organizations such as NyE Communities Coalition to deliver effective programs that promote health, safety, and resilience across Nevada.
These partnerships help empower local coalitions like the Lincoln Community Coalition to continue offering resources and education to combat substance misuse and promote wellness throughout the county.
What to Bring — and What to Expect
Residents are encouraged to bring:
- Expired prescriptions
- Unused or leftover medications
- Over-the-counter medications
Please note: Items such as needles, syringes, and inhalers may not be accepted. For questions on what can and cannot be turned in, it’s best to contact the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office or the Lincoln Community Coalition in advance.
There is no paperwork to fill out, and no questions asked — just drive or walk up, drop off your items, and go. Volunteers and law enforcement will be on site to assist and ensure everything is handled securely.
Small Actions, Big Impact
Events like Drug Take Back Day are a reminder that simple actions — like cleaning out a medicine cabinet — can have a lasting impact. When communities come together to take proactive steps toward safety and prevention, it strengthens the entire county.
So spread the word, and plan to stop by one of the drop-off locations on Saturday, April 26 from 10 AM to 2 PM. By participating, you’re helping make Lincoln County a safer, healthier place for everyone.
For more information about local prevention efforts, programs, and events, follow the Lincoln Community Coalition or reach out to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.