Rep. Markwayne Mullin to host drug take-back event in Claremore

CLAREMORE, Okla. (KTUL) — U.S. Rep. Markwayne Mullin will head to Claremore Friday for a prescription drug take-back event.

The congressman is taking part in the event "to raise awareness of the opioid crisis and encourage Oklahomans to dispose of their prescription drugs in a safe, convenient, and responsible way," according to a press release.

"Oklahoma dispensed 128 painkiller prescriptions for every 100 people in 2012 and recent studies show that rural areas such as Oklahoma have higher rates of opioid overdose than more populated areas," Mullin said in the release. "The opioid crisis is more than just troubling statistics -- it's personal. We all know someone affected by opioid addiction and as a community, it's our turn to do what we can to help. Ending the opioid crisis starts here at home and taking simple steps like dropping off excess prescription drugs at a safe disposal location is a great start. I hope you'll join me at this drug take back event to safely and responsibly dispose of your unused prescription drugs."

The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Walgreens Pharmacy at 601 W. Will Rogers Boulevard.

After the event, Mullin will host a roundtable discussion on the opioid crisis in Oklahoma. That event will take place from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Northeast Technology Center in Claremore (1901 N. Highway 88).