A Study On Unused And Expired Drug Disposal Practices : Knowledge And Behavioural Patterns Among The Rural Population

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION:Unused and expired drugs in the households constitute a dominating cause of environmental contamination with drugs and other health hazards in addition to Industrial waste of the pharmaceutical companies. There are no proper disposal mechanisms being followed in India even we do not have a legislation to follow and to make health care providers accountable. METHODOLOGY:Around 650 households were surveyed to know about their current practicing methods of drug disposal and also their knowledge on impact of improper drug disposal on health and environment. RESULTS:Our study shown that nearly 85% of the participants discarded leftover medications by throwing them in the Garbage, while 7% burned in open place and few Respondents 1-2% followed returned to Pharmacy/health facility/friends etc. CONCLUSIONS:There is an urgent need for creating awareness among the people regarding proper drug disposal mechanisms