How To Reduce Pharmaceutical Waste
Prescription medications and the blister packs they are supplied in are a vital part of modern healthcare, but unfortunately, a significant amount ends up wasted each year. This not only harms the environment but also represents a missed opportunity for people who could benefit from those medications.
The good news is that there are steps we can all take, whether that’s at home or in your business, to reduce pharmaceutical waste. As with all manufacturing processes the Waste Hierarchy needs to be applied and you can consider the following actions:
How Can Your Business Help To Reduce Pharmaceutical Waste?
Businesses have a legal responsibility for the safe disposal of pharmaceutical waste, and there are specific protocols to follow:
1) Waste Segregation
Different coloured bins are used for various types of pharmaceutical waste. Common ones include:
- Blue bins for non-hazardous expired or unused medications.
- Purple bins for cytotoxic/cytostatic drugs and sharps contaminated by them.
- Yellow bins for other sharps with medical residue (needles, syringes).
2) Secure Storage
Bins must be kept in a secure location to prevent leaks, spills, or unauthorised access.
3) Licensed Partners
Businesses must use licensed waste management companies for collection and disposal. These companies ensure proper transportation and incineration at high temperatures in authorised facilities.
4) Documentation
Businesses are required to maintain records of their pharmaceutical waste disposal, including waste transfer notes with details about the type and amount of waste collected.
For Healthcare Providers:
- Prescribe wisely
Doctors and pharmacists should work together to ensure patients receive the most appropriate medications and dosages.
- Promote patient education
Educate patients on proper medication use, storage, and disposal.
- Utilise patient medication history
Review a patient’s existing medications before prescribing new ones to avoid duplicates or interactions.
- Explore unit dose packaging
This dispenses medications in individual servings, reducing waste from unused portions of multi-dose prescriptions.
What are the plans for the future?
- Innovation in packaging
Developing more sustainable and easier-to-dispense packaging for medications could significantly reduce waste.
- Take-back programs
Expanding and promoting take-back programs for unwanted medications is crucial for proper disposal and potential future use through safe channels.
By working together, patients, healthcare providers and the pharmaceutical industry can significantly reduce the amount of pharmaceutical waste. Not only does this benefit the environment and public health but also ensures these valuable medications reach those who need them most. Inevitably waste will still exist which can be difficult to handle due to the mixed materials used. Product destruction is a fundamental part of the waste handling process and PRM can provide equipment to manage this. Get in touch with PRM to find out more about pharmaceutical waste solutions for your business.