Prescription Drugs Behind One in Four Overdose Deaths—Alamogordo Urged to Act During Statewide Awareness Events

ALAMOGORDO, NM — As New Mexico grapples with one of the highest drug overdose death rates in the nation, local families in Otero County are being urged to take action. In 2023, New Mexico ranked sixth in overdose deaths per capita, and nearly one quarter of those fatalities were linked to prescription medications—including opioids, sedatives, and stimulants.

In Alamogordo, where the community includes retirees, veterans, and working families, the risks are especially close to home. Many overdoses stem not from street drugs, but from medications obtained from friends or relatives—often from unlocked medicine cabinets.

To address this crisis, the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is promoting two statewide events this week:

Lock Your Meds Day —  Today October 23

Sponsored by the National Family Partnership, this initiative highlights a sobering fact: nearly 45% of people who misuse prescription drugs get them from family or friends. Residents are encouraged to secure medications in lockboxes and educate loved ones about the risks of sharing prescriptions.

 National Prescription Take Back Day — October 25

Led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, this event offers free, anonymous drop-off sites for expired or unused medications. Many local pharmacies such as Walgreens and Christus Health in Alamogordo also provide year-round disposal options.

“Now is a great time to do an inventory of your prescriptions and take any that you no longer use or are expired to a drop-off location,” said Dr. Miranda Durham, NMDOH Chief Medical Officer.

What Alamogordo Residents Can Do

Whether you’re a caregiver, parent, or simply someone with a medicine cabinet, here are four essential steps to protect your household and community:

• Lock up all medications: Use secure cabinets or lockboxes. Avoid leaving pills on counters or nightstands.

• Take regular inventory: Track all medications, especially controlled substances.

• Educate and communicate: Talk to children and teens about the dangers of sharing or misusing medications.

• Dispose responsibly: Never flush medications. Mix them with coffee grounds or kitty litter if no drop-off site is available.

A Community Call to Action

In a town like Alamogordo, Tularosa and Cloudcroft—where neighbors know each other and community ties run deep—small actions can have life-saving impact. Participating in Lock Your Meds Day and Take Back Day isn’t just about cleaning out your cabinet; it’s about protecting your loved ones and helping New Mexico turn the tide on overdose deaths.

For drop-off locations near you, check with your local pharmacy or visit NMDOH’s website for resources.

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