MTSU Drive-Thru Collects Over 80 Pounds of Meds and Vapes

May 06, 2026 at 03:40 pm by WGNS


MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) - Middle Tennessee State University officials collected over 80 pounds of unwanted medications and vape products during the recent biannual MTSU Drug-Vape Take-Back event. The drive took place outside the Health, Wellness and Recreation Center. Organizers say the public dropped off nearly 77 pounds of medication through the pharmacy’s drive-thru. That total included over 14 pounds of controlled substances and 33 pounds of prescriptions.

Residents also turned in 136 vapes, which weighed about 15 pounds. Tabby Ragland, the director of the MTSU Campus Pharmacy, says she is pleased with the community's response. The university partners with the DEA for this national initiative to provide a safe and environmentally friendly way to get rid of drugs. The event helps prevent prescription drug abuse and keeps chemicals out of the local environment.

Tags: DEA National Take Back Day drug take back Middle Tennessee State University MTSU MTSU Campus Pharmacy Murfreesboro news prescription drug disposal Rutherford County vape recycling Tennessee WGNS radio
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