Elliot Health System to Host Prescription Drug Take Back Event

The event will collect unused or expired medications on National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A glowing neon outline of a medicine bottle or pill capsule against a dark background, with the outline pulsing and vibrating with energy, conceptually representing the importance of safely disposing of unused prescription drugs.Elliot Health System's drug take back event provides a safe, convenient way for residents to dispose of unused medications and prevent potential misuse.Manchester Today

Elliot Health System, the largest healthcare provider in Southern New Hampshire, will be hosting a prescription drug take back event on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their Elliot Pharmacy location at River's Edge in Manchester. The event is part of the national Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Prescription Drug Take Back Day initiative, which aims to provide a safe and convenient way for community members to dispose of unused or expired medications.

Why it matters

Proper disposal of unused or expired prescription medications is crucial to prevent accidental poisoning, drug misuse, and environmental harm. This event supports community health and safety by giving residents an opportunity to safely get rid of potentially dangerous drugs that may be sitting in their homes.

The details

The event is free and open to the public, with no appointment necessary. Elliot Health System is partnering with the DEA and Manchester Police Department to collect the medications. Since 2010, the DEA's National Prescription Drug Take Back Day has removed over 20 million pounds of unwanted medications from communities across the United States.

  • The event will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The players

Elliot Health System

A non-profit healthcare organization and the largest provider of comprehensive health services in Southern New Hampshire, operating Elliot Hospital and various other medical facilities.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Justice that is responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States.

Manchester Police Department

The law enforcement agency responsible for serving the city of Manchester, New Hampshire.

Richard Charbonneau

The director of security at Elliot Health System.

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What they’re saying

“As Southern New Hampshire's largest health system, Elliot is proud to actively participate in this national effort to support the health and safety of our community. Holding on to unused or expired prescription medications is a health hazard commonly found in homes. The national effort provides increased awareness and spotlights the dangers of what can happen if unused medication falls into the wrong hands.”

— Richard Charbonneau, Director of Security, Elliot Health System

What’s next

Residents are encouraged to check their medicine cabinets and participate in the April 25 collection event. Prescription medication drop boxes are also available year-round at Elliot at River's Edge, the main lobby of Elliot Hospital, and police departments statewide.

The takeaway

This event provides a crucial opportunity for community members to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription medications, helping to prevent drug misuse, accidental poisoning, and environmental harm. Elliot Health System's partnership with the DEA and local law enforcement demonstrates their commitment to promoting public health and safety.