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Unused drugs returned to the pharmacy--new data
1Institute for Pharmacoepidemiology und Technology Assessment, Berlin, Germany. bronder@ipta-berlin.de
International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
|December 1, 2001
Summary
Despite increased prescription charges in Germany, the volume of unused returned medications has risen. This study highlights the growing problem of medication waste and non-compliance, necessitating further investigation into patient behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Health Economics
- Pharmaceutical Policy
- Patient Behavior
Background:
- Rising healthcare costs in Germany are a persistent concern.
- The issue of unused returned medications in pharmacies remains significant.
- Previous studies documented this problem in 1988, with a follow-up in 1998.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the quantity and characteristics of unused drugs returned to pharmacies in 1998 with data from a 1988 study.
- To analyze trends in medication waste and patient return behavior over a decade.
Main Methods:
- A 12-month documentation of all unused drugs returned to a public pharmacy in Berlin in 1998.
- Classification of returned drugs by therapeutic group and prescription status.
- Assessment of the remaining quantity in each package and its original value.
Main Results:
- Over 10,600 unused drug packages were collected in 1998, a significant increase from 1988.
- Returned drugs primarily consisted of prescription medications, with only 17% for self-medication.
- The value of returned unused medicines increased substantially, indicating a rise in medication waste.
Conclusions:
- The amount of unused drugs returned to pharmacies has increased despite higher prescription charges.
- Patient non-compliance with medication regimens appears to be a growing issue.
- Further research is needed to understand the underlying reasons for this non-compliant behavior.