BILLINGS — About 9.9 million Americans misused prescription drugs last year, according to the Drug Enforcement Agency.
The DEA kept some of those drugs away from potential users on Saturday.
Many in Billings brought their unused drugs to National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at the Elks Lodge and First Interstate Bank in the Heights.
The Elks Lodge has been helping with the event for about 10 years.
It's part of a national program with the Elks.
"It's taking the drugs off the street," said Mike Yakawich, an Elks member. "It's ensuring that it's taken care of so it's not polluting our water system. And also just ensuring that it's not abused whether it be in the family or in the community itself. It's a big project for the Elks is drug abuse prevention. It's nationwide, it's their handle, it's their hallmark. "
Last year the Elks Lodge collected about 500 pounds of prescription drugs and the goal this year is 700 pounds.
