Prescription drug abuse on the rise in Colorado

Prescription drug abuse continues to be a big problem in Colorado.

State officials say a quarter of a million people in Colorado misuse prescription painkillers every year.

Joanie Lewis is an addictions counselor at Insight Services. She says she’s noticed a growing problem in the state over the last ten years.

“We have seen what has been the solution in the past truly become the problem,” she said.More and more pain medications are being prescribed, more and more pain medications are being requested.”

Lewis encourages people to take a look at their medicine cabinets and clear out what they don’t need.

“If you’re done with your prescription, get rid of it,” she said. “If and when you need another one, then you go through the process.

The Drug Enforcement Administration is working with state and local law enforcement agencies to sponsor a prescription drug take-back initiative. This is a statewide event and will provide an opportunity for the public to turn-in any unneeded pills.

When: Saturday, Sept. 27
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Drop-off locations:

Colorado Springs

Police Operations Center
705 S. Nevada Ave.

Security Fire Station #1
400 Security Blvd.

Household Hazardous Waste Facility
3255 Akers Dr.

Memorial Hospital North
4105 Briargate Pkwy. Fort Carson Exchange or Commissary

Manitou Springs

Police Department
606 Manitou Ave.

Pueblo

Pueblo Municipal Justice Center
200 S. Main St.

Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office – Pueblo West Substation
320 E. Joe Martinez Blvd.

Pueblo Rural Fire Station #1
24941 Highway 50 E

Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office – Colorado City Substation
4497 Bent Brothers Blvd.