ST. PAUL — Minnesotans have a chance to get rid of their old and unused prescription drugs on Saturday.

April 26 is National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. State Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson encourages Minnesotans to dispose of their unwanted prescription drugs as a way to stop drug abuse before it starts.

Jesson says illegally used prescription drugs are usually obtained from a friend or relative. And she notes abuse of prescription painkillers has contributed to a rise in heroin and other opiate abuse.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has set Take-Back Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Unused prescription drugs also can be disposed of year-round at many local law enforcement and county offices.

Locally, people can dispose of old medication at a dropbox located near the entrance to the Law Enforcement Center, 201 First St. NE.