Practice of Expired and Unused Drug Disposal in South Asian and Southeast Asian Countries

The rising incidence of diseases and subsequent medication use have led to an increase in unused, expired, and unwanted medications. Improper disposal practices, prevalent in South Asian countries due to the lack of official guidelines, pose significant threats to public health and the environment. Multiple studies were conducted during the last decade across South and Southeast Asian regions, involving thousands participants. The predominant disposal methods include discarding medications in household trash or flushing them down sinks/toilets, with minimal returns to pharmacies for proper disposal. Lack of awareness, home storage of medications, and inadequate disposal methods were common trends identified. Dosage forms, particularly topical preparations, significantly influenced disposal practices. The consequences of improper disposal on human health encompass environmental contamination, antibiotic resistance, and potential physiological disruptions, emphasizing the need for education, intervention, and regulatory measures. Environmental ramifications extend to water and soil contamination, necessitating eco-friendly disposal strategies and robust medication take-back programs. Preventive measures might include improved drug management systems, community “take-back” programs, and exploring donation options for unused medications. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders, emphasizing the role of pharmacists, are crucial in establishing safe disposal guidelines and addressing pharmaceutical waste management challenges.