Elimination Methods of Pharmaceutical Waste in Pharmacies and Homes

Background and Since long time ago disposal of expired and unused medicines from homes and pharmacies has been regarded as an important issue. These types of drugs have terrible effects on human health and environment. This study investigated the methods for disposal of pharmaceutical waste from pharmacies and homes. In a descriptive study, 30 pharmacies and 100 patients’ homes were randomly selected in Shiraz, Iran. A questionnaire about the storage and disposal methods of expired and unused medications were then completed. The results showed that patients did not have enough information about disposal methods of expired and unused medicines, but in pharmacies these drugs were sorted in particular labeled packaging and kept in separate places. According to this study disposal of expired and unused drugs are not performed according to official instructions.