Unused and expired medicines are emerging as a major environmental and public health concern, according to a new United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) guidance document on safe disposal. The report places waste prevention at the centre of action and recommends stronger national systems, better prescribing practices, and organised take-back mechanisms to reduce pollution and health risks linked to discarded pharmaceuticals.
Key Concern – Medicine Waste and Pollution
Improper disposal of medicines can contaminate air, water, and soil. It also increases the risk of poisoning and contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). UNEP has linked unused and expired antimicrobials to AMR pollution, which can spread resistant pathogens, AMR genes, and residues into the environment.
Four-Pillar Framework
The report proposes an integrated approach across healthcare, agriculture, and households. Its four pillars are:
- Prevention at source to reduce unused medicines.
- Comprehensive take-back schemes for safe collection.
- Legal and policy frameworks for disposal systems.
- Awareness-raising across sectors and communities.
It argues that the most effective solution is to stop medicines from becoming waste in the first place.
Prevention Measures Highlighted
The report recommends disease prevention, including vaccination, biosecurity, and WASH measures, to reduce medicine demand. It also supports judicious use of medicines through accurate diagnosis, proper prescribing, antimicrobial stewardship, and restrictions on over-the-counter sales. Unit-dose packaging and redistribution of safe, unexpired medicines are also suggested to cut waste.
India’s Response and State Initiatives
India’s National Action Plan on AMR 2.0 calls for safe disposal of expired or unused antimicrobials. The CDSCO has issued disposal guidelines for state and Union Territory drug controllers, including a Flush List of 17 medicines. Kerala’s nPROUD programme is already operating as a drug take-back initiative, while earlier studies in the Delhi-NCR region had flagged widespread improper disposal of medicines.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026