Police collect unwanted prescription pills

As part of the national prescription drug take-back day, Costa Mesa and Newport Beach police collected more than 300 pounds of unwanted drugs, officials said Monday.

On Saturday, 35 people turned over 129 pounds of prescription drugs to the Costa Mesa Police Department as part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s sixth national prescription drug take back day, according to a news release from the city.

Newport Beach collected 225 pounds — or nine boxes — of medicine in the campaign, according to spokeswoman Kathy Lowe.

The nationwide effort to take back unwanted drugs with no questions asked aims to provide a safe, easy means for disposal of the drugs while educating people about their potential abuses.

Those who wish to dispose of unwanted medications but missed Saturday’s drug take-back event can leave medications at four pharmacies listed on the Costa Mesa Sanitary District’s website. Newport Beach residents are encouraged to treat medicines by adding salt or ash and water and seal them before throwing them away.

— Lauren Williams

Twitter: @lawilliams30