Pharmaceutical waste is a growing problem that affects you and your patients. Leftover medication from prescriptions people no longer want or need, along with expired drugs, end up in landfills or the water supply. This includes pills, capsules, creams, liquids, and even medical equipment. Sadly, this harms wildlife and the environment.
Hospitals and clinics are another source of waste. They have large amounts of expired and unused medications to dispose of. But without proper handling, the drugs can also end up in the environment.
Pharmaceutical waste is a risk to public health. Expired drugs can lose their effectiveness, and it can be dangerous if someone uses them. This includes antibiotics. However, there are things you and your patients can do to remedy this growing problem, such as:
- Properly dispose of unwanted or expired medication. Return the medication to the pharmacy or use a drug take-back program.
- Reduce the amount of medication prescribed. Prescribe only the amount they need and the most appropriate medication for the condition.
- Implement a system that will track and manage the inventory of medication.
- Train your staff on proper methods of disposal.
It’s vital for your pharmacy to properly dispose of unwanted medication, reduce the amount of medication that’s prescribed, and put a medication management program in place. Educate your patients on how to dispose of medications they no longer use. Let them know how important it is to keep the environment safe for all.
A Member-Owned Company Serving Independent Pharmacies
PBA Health is dedicated to helping independent pharmacies reach their full potential on the buy-side of their business. Founded and run by pharmacists, PBA Health serves independent pharmacies with group purchasing services, wholesaler contract negotiations, proprietary purchasing tools, and more.
An HDA member, PBA Health operates its own NABP-accredited warehouse with more than 6,000 SKUs, including brands, generics, narcotics CII-CV, cold-storage products, and over-the-counter (OTC) products — offering the lowest prices in the secondary market.
