No abstract

Background: Expansion of pharmaceutical industries and improved availability of pharmaceuticals across the world have contributed to an increase in drug usage and accumulation in homes. In Liberia, there are currently no guidelines that govern the disposal of expired and unused prescriptions among community residents. The objective of the study was to assess the level of awareness, and knowledge on disposal as well as disposal practices of unused and expired household medicines in the Parker Corner Road Community in Brewerville, Liberia. Methods: In a descriptive, cross-sectional survey conducted among residents of Parker Corner Road Community, face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire. Outcomes measured were knowledge and awareness of disposal as well as disposal practices of unused and expired household medicines. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: Majority of respondents (55.6%) were female and 23.5% had university education. 71% of the respondents reported that they had not received any information on safe disposal practices while 64.2% admitted that they often did not read and follow and disposal instructions. The most popular disposal practices were disposal of the drugs along with household waste (61.1%) and flushing them down the toilets or sinks (25.3%). Majority of the respondents (82.1%) were aware of the environmental and human health effects arising from improper disposal of unused and expired medicines while 64.2% usually read medicine disposal instruction on the package. Only about 3% of them were aware of expired medication take-back system. 37% of respondents were aware that unused and expired medicines need to be disposed of safely while as much as 33.3 % knew nothing about medication expiration date. Conclusion: The study revealed poor knowledge and awareness as well as inappropriate disposal practices of unused and expired medicines amongst residents of Parker Corner Road Community in Brewerville. There is need to organize a public enlightenment programme on safe, appropriate use, as well as disposal of unused and expired medicines.