Preventing Overdose & Safe Medication Disposal
The opioid crisis and the rise of synthetic drugs continue to impact communities nationwide. Knowing how to prevent overdoses, safely store medications, and properly dispose of unused medications can help save lives.
Narcan (Naloxone): Saving Lives
Narcan (naloxone) is a nasal spray that can reverse an opioid overdose and can be administered by anyone. Keystone provides Narcan free of charge, no questions asked. If you need Narcan, visit any Keystone location during business hours and ask at the front desk. Those who administer naloxone in an emergency are generally protected under South Carolina’s Good Samaritan Law.
How Narcan Works
- Opioids attach to receptors in the brain and body.
- Narcan blocks opioids from those receptors.
- This can temporarily reverse an overdose and restore breathing.
Important: More than one dose of Narcan may be needed. Always call 911 immediately if an overdose is suspected.
Organizations interested in Narcan training should contact Keystone’s Prevention Department.
Medication Safety
Accidental overdoses can happen. Always follow dosage instructions and keep track of medications being taken. Medication organizers and lock boxes can help prevent misuse and keep medications away from children.
Safe Medication Disposal
Unused or expired medications should be disposed of properly. Do NOT:
- Flush medications
- Throw medications directly in the trash
- Keep unused or expired medications
Deterra Drug Deactivation Bags
Keystone offers free Deterra bags, which use activated charcoal to safely deactivate pills, liquids, and patches for disposal. Contact Keystone’s Prevention Department for more information.
York County Medication Drop Boxes
Residents can safely dispose of unwanted medications at:
- Fort Mill Police Department, 111 Academy Street, Fort Mill
- Rock Hill Police Department, 120 East Black Street, Rock Hill
- Winthrop Police Department, 526 Myrtle Drive, Rock Hill
- York County Sheriff’s Office (Moss Justice Center), 1675 York Hwy., York
- York Police Department, 12 N. Roosevelt Street, York
- Clover Police Department, 112 Bethel Street, Clover
- Tega Cay Police Department, 7705 Tega Cay Drive, Tega Cay