Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer | Saint John's Hospital
Brian Brennan, Chief Executive Officer | Saint John's Hospital
HSHS St. John’s Community Pharmacy in Springfield is encouraging residents to safely dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs, as the fall National Prescription Drug Take Back Day approaches on Saturday, October 25. The pharmacy serves as a year-round drop-off site for medication disposal.
Natalie Howes, PharmD, Outpatient Pharmacy Manager at HSHS St. John’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of proper disposal. “Our goal is to be more than a pharmacy – we are your health care partner,” said Howes. “Flushing or throwing away old pills can contaminate waterways, but with year-round take-back services, we can help preserve our planet and keep our families safe from prescription drug misuse.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) designates two annual prescription drug take-back days, typically held in April and October. The agency has also authorized HSHS St. John’s Community Pharmacy as a permanent collection site for medications.
Since the DEA began its national take-back program in 2010, more than 9,900 tons of prescription drugs have been collected across the United States. In April 2025 alone, approximately 310 tons were dropped off at nearly 4,600 sites nationwide.
HSHS St. John’s Community Pharmacy accepts most insurance plans and provides a range of over-the-counter medications and vitamins. The pharmacy is located at 400 N. 9th St., Suite 1500 in Springfield and operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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