Unwanted, old and expired drugs can be safely disposed of this Saturday.

The Drug Enforcement Administration has designated April 22 as its 24^th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. On that day, participating partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches and other solid forms of prescription drugs and dispose of them.

For more than 10 years, DEA’s Take Back Day has helped Americans rid their homes of unneeded medications that too often become a gateway to addiction. The event offers free and anonymous disposal of unneeded meds at more than 4,000 locations nationwide from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed more than 8,300 tons of medications from circulation since its inception.

Collection sites will not accept syringes or other sharps, and illicit drugs. Liquid products, such as cough syrup, should remain tightly sealed in their original containers to prevent leakage.

For more information and to find collection sites, visit www.DEATakeBack.com.

Many local pharmacies also offer safe medication disposal year-round.