The American Medicine Chest Challenge

The 2007 study by the National Study of Drug-Use and Health found 70 percent of people who abuse prescription pain relievers say they got them from friends or relatives. A recent study about drug use by teens conducted by the Partnership for a Drug Free America (PDFA) found one in nine children are abusing prescription pain relievers to get high.

To help combat this growing threat to our nation’s children, the United States Senate deemed October 2010 as National Medicine Abuse Awareness Month. Here in Muskogee, we’re taking things even further by hosting the American Medicine Chest Challenge (AMCC). Muskogee and surrounding communities can dispose of their unused, unwanted or expired medication from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 13 at the Muskogee Nonprofit Resource Center, 207 N. Second St., in downtown Muskogee, next to the Muskogee Public Schools Administration offices.

American Medicine Chest Challenge is a nationwide public health initiative that challenges residents to take the five step Medicine Chest Challenge:

• Take inventory of your prescription and over-the-counter medicine.

• Lock your medicine chest.

• Dispose of your unused, unwanted, and expired medicine in your home or at an American Medicine Chest Challenge disposal site.

• Take your medicine(s) exactly as prescribed.

• Talk to your children about the dangers of prescription drug abuse.

The Muskogee Medicine Chest Challenge is being spearheaded by Muskogee Community Anti-Drug Network and Muskogee Police Department.

Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in our country, and the easiest way to combat it is to properly dispose of your unused, unwanted or expired medicine. The American Medicine Chest Challenge is the best way to do just that.

For more information, please contact Muskogee Community Anti-Drug Network at 683-4600 or by e-mail at lroberts@muskogeenonprofits.org.

Lindsey Roberts, CPS

Prevention Specialist

Muskogee Community Anti-Drug Network

Muskogee