Assessment of knowledge and practice of disposal of leftover and expired medicine among MBBS students

Abstract

Background:The correct disposal of medicine poses a challenge and is receiving increasing attention. The present study was conducted to assess knowledge and practice of disposal of leftover and expired medicine among MBBS students.Materials & Methods:110 MBBS students of both genders were provided with the questionnaire and parameters such as the number of leftover drugs, reasons for leftover, most common class of leftover drugs and dosage form were recorded.Results: 56%check the expiry date of medicine before procuring, 20% no and 24% don’t know. 45% throw away in household garbage, 12% donate to hospital, 17% give to friends or relatives and 26% return to medical store. In response to what to do with expired medicine, 60% flush in toilet or sink, 14% give to friends or relatives, 10% throw away in household garbage and16% return to medical store. In response to who is responsible for creating awareness of the proper disposal of unused and expired medicine, ministry of health by 60%, pharmacist by15%, pharmaceutical industry by 5% and general public by 20%. 85% responded that improper disposal of unused and expired medicine can affect the environment and health. The difference was significant (P< 0.05).Conclusion: There is requirement of providing knowledge about the disposal of leftover and expired medicine among MBBS students.