Publication:

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding disposal of unused and expired medicines among the general public in Bathinda district, Punjab

Background Improper disposal of unused and expired medicines has become an important public health and environmental concern. Lack of awareness regarding safe medication disposal practices may lead to environmental pollution, drug resistance, and adverse health outcomes. The present study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and consumer practices regarding disposal of unused and expired medicines among the general public in Bathinda district, Punjab.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 152 participants aged above 18 years in Bhucho-kalan, Bhucho-khurd, and Bhucho-mandi areas of Bathinda district. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire through face-to-face interviews after obtaining informed consent. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel and IBM SPSS version 22.0. Chi-square test was applied and p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results Majority of participants (61.2%) reported the availability of expired medicines at home. About 53.3% participants understood expiry of medicines as loss of shelf life, treatment failure, and production of toxins. Most respondents disposed medicines in household trash (59.2%) and only a few returned medicines to pharmacies (5.3%). Significant association was observed between checking expiry dates and demographic factors such as age, education, and occupation status (p<0.05).

Conclusions Although the public showed awareness regarding environmental hazards associated with improper disposal of medicines, inappropriate disposal practices were still common. Awareness programs, written instructions, and drug take-back initiatives are required to improve safe disposal practices among the general population.