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Study by Alberta pharmacists indicates drug wastage a "mammoth" problem
Summary
A significant amount of prescribed medications is being wasted, as shown by unused drugs returned to Alberta pharmacies. Over 200 tonnes of discarded medicines have been collected since 1988.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Public Health
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Unused prescription medications represent a significant public health and environmental concern.
- Proper disposal of pharmaceuticals is crucial to prevent misuse and contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the extent of pharmaceutical waste collected through pharmacy take-back programs in Alberta.
- To highlight the scale of medication waste from patient prescriptions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from unused drugs and medical products returned to Alberta pharmacies.
- Tracking collection data from 1988 to the present.
Main Results:
- Alberta pharmacies have collected a total of 204 tonnes of discarded drugs and other medical products.
- The collected volume indicates substantial waste of prescribed medications.
Conclusions:
- A considerable quantity of prescribed drugs is being wasted by patients.
- Pharmacy-based collection programs are essential for managing pharmaceutical waste.