Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of Safe Disposal of Unused and Expired Medications among Stakeholders

Abstract

Medicines play a crucial role in treating many diseases and medical conditions. Most of the medicine users are unaware of disposal practices of unused/expired medicines. These are potentially toxic substances that should be managed effectively to avoid accidental consumption and possible environmental hazards. The study conducted across Mysuru city aimed to explore the knowledge, attitude, and practice towards the disposal of unused and expired medicines among stakeholders such as pharmacy students, doctors, nursing students, professors, housekeeping staffs and general population. A total of 150 participants have completed the survey. According to the survey, 70.38% of the general public, 60% of doctors, and 76.5% of students were unaware of proper drug disposal methods. Out of 150 responders, 90 (91.83%) students, 10 (100%) physicians, 14 (93.33%) academics, and 24 (88.89%) members of the general public agreed that inappropriate medicine disposal affected both human health and the environment. Majority of the stakeholders had leftover/unused medications at home. The most common reason for drug accumulation was improved health. The most common drug disposal practice was throwing in trash bin followed by distributing them to friends and family. 85.2% of stakeholders agreed that a drug take-back program should be introduced and 94% agreed that consumer education is necessary for safe disposal of unused medicines. The results showed poor knowledge and awareness about proper disposal methods leading to drug accumulation.