Mary Ann Kozak1, Johnna R Melton2, Stephanie A Gernant3, Margie E Snyder3. 1. Department of Pharmacy Practice, Purdue University College of Pharmacy Indianapolis, IN, USA. Electronic address: makozak@purdue.edu. 2. Indiana University Health Arnett, Outpatient Pharmacy, Lafayette, IN, USA. 3. Department of Pharmacy Practice, Purdue University College of Pharmacy Indianapolis, IN, USA.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Access and availability of unused and expired medication (UEM) due to improper disposal and storage is a serious issue, potentially leading to abuse and environmental concerns. OBJECTIVE: To describe the extent of the UEM issue in Indiana (U.S. State), identify patient beliefs about UEM, and determine any association between those beliefs and various personal/demographic characteristics. RESULTS: A needs assessment was conducted among community pharmacy patients. A convenience sample of 200 patients from 15 community pharmacies that are part of a practice-based research network (PBRN) in Indiana completed a survey concerning UEM beliefs and behaviors from Feb-March, 2014. Approximately 40% of patients were aware of a UEM take-back location in their community, although only 15% had utilized a UEM take-back location. Seventy-seven percent of patients were willing to drive to a take-back location to return UEM. Particularly vulnerable populations lacking knowledge regarding UEM and access to proper disposal were identified. CONCLUSIONS: While states have made efforts to increase accessibility for UEM return, there remains a need for more disposal locations for both non-controlled and controlled medication.
BACKGROUND: Access and availability of unused and expired medication (UEM) due to improper disposal and storage is a serious issue, potentially leading to abuse and environmental concerns. OBJECTIVE: To describe the extent of the UEM issue in Indiana (U.S. State), identify patient beliefs about UEM, and determine any association between those beliefs and various personal/demographic characteristics. RESULTS: A needs assessment was conducted among community pharmacy patients. A convenience sample of 200 patients from 15 community pharmacies that are part of a practice-based research network (PBRN) in Indiana completed a survey concerning UEM beliefs and behaviors from Feb-March, 2014. Approximately 40% of patients were aware of a UEM take-back location in their community, although only 15% had utilized a UEM take-back location. Seventy-seven percent of patients were willing to drive to a take-back location to return UEM. Particularly vulnerable populations lacking knowledge regarding UEM and access to proper disposal were identified. CONCLUSIONS: While states have made efforts to increase accessibility for UEM return, there remains a need for more disposal locations for both non-controlled and controlled medication.
Authors: Kala Sundararajan; Prabjit Ajrawat; Mayilee Canizares; J Denise Power; Anthony V Perruccio; Angela Sarro; Luis Montoya; Y Raja Rampersaud Journal: PLoS One Date: 2021-08-26 Impact factor: 3.240
Authors: Mohamed A Hendaus; Shereen Darwish; Manar Saleh; Omar Mostafa; Ahmed Eltayeb; Mohammed Al-Amri; Faisal J Siddiqui; Ahmed Alhammadi Journal: J Family Med Prim Care Date: 2021-07-30
Authors: Faez Alnahas; Prince Yeboah; Louise Fliedel; Ahmad Yaman Abdin; Khair Alhareth Journal: Int J Environ Res Public Health Date: 2020-01-27 Impact factor: 3.390