The Needs and Opportunities for Medication Disposal Programs

The continued increase in the usage of medications has led to a variety of negative consequences, including adverse effects on our environment and an increase in misuse/abuse of these products. Improper disposal of unused medications results in significant effects to wildlife and the potential to adversely affect human cells. Increases in misuse/abuse have resulted in significant increases in emergency department visits for drug-related issues. Drug overdose is now the leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Education of both health care providers and the general public about these issues and the proper disposal of unused medications is crucial.