Abstract

The improper disposal of medications and their prolonged presence in the environment damage not only human health but also biological species and ecosystems. Unsafe medicine disposal has been ascribed to a variety of causes. The present study was done with the aim to assess the knowledge attitude and practice regarding safe disposal of medications among medical students A total of 200 MBBS students consented to participate in the study. They received the questionnaire via Google Forms, and the answers were recorded and analysed. Tablets were the least used dosage form, with antibiotics dominating the list of drugs that were unused after their expiration dates. 31% of respondents said that ceasing therapy after a successful outcome was a major factor in the rise of unutilized drugs. 65.5% of those surveyed threw away expired drugs. 96.5% of respondents agreed that there should be a good drug disposal programme. Although there is a lack of accurate information regarding safe disposal methods, the participants had a positive attitude towards learning about good and safe disposal methods. Public education about the right way to dispose of unused medications is essential, and healthcare professionals should inform their patients about both the environmental effects of improper disposal and the proper way to do so. Establishing a take-back programme and looking into incentives for returning unwanted prescriptions to pharmacies are two things that the government and its supporters should do.

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