Drug deactivation pouches available as part of opioid overdose prevention efforts

STEUBENVILLE, W. Va.

The United Prevention Partnership has announced it has drug deactivation pouches that are available for free to community members.

The Deterra Drug Deactivation System is a safe medication disposal pouch that allows people to easily and effectively dispose of unused, unwanted or expired medications, including opioid painkillers, right at home, according to Ashley Wilson, United Prevention Partnership coordinator for Jefferson County.

The drug deactivation bags are available at no cost at Family Recovery Center, which is located at 1010 N. Sixth St., Steubenville. It is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Research has shown that three out of four people who use heroin reported they first used a prescription opioid, and 70 percent of prescribed opioids for surgical use remain unused and available in someone’s home for abuse.