Most of us have a standard behavior of discarding expired medicines within the dustbin. Nevertheless, in keeping with the Central Medication Customary Management Organisation’s (CDSCO) newest advisory, flushing sure expired or unused medication down the bathroom ought to be the norm, somewhat than throwing them within the dustbin. In line with CDSCO, improper disposal of expired, unused medication could also be hazardous to public well being, animal well being, and the surroundings. It has additionally been famous as one of many key elements contributing to the expansion of Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR), as said in a notification dated Might 26, 2025.
In the identical notification, it listed a “small variety of medicines” that could be particularly dangerous and, in some instances, deadly if utilized by somebody apart from the individual for whom the drugs was prescribed. “Expired, undesirable, or unused medicines ought to be flushed down the sink or bathroom to assist forestall hazard to folks and pets within the house.”
The 17 medication, which when unused or expired, ought to be flushed (Photograph: CDSCO)
Notably, an expired drug refers to a drug which had crossed the expiry date talked about on the label. Additional, unused medication discuss with the medicines that haven’t been utilized by the particular person for whom they have been prescribed or bought.
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The drug regulator famous that expired medication might come into contact with scavengers and kids if a landfill is insecure. “Pilfering from a stockpile of waste medication or throughout sorting might end in expired medication being diverted to the marketplace for resale and misuse. Most prescribed drugs previous their expiry date turn out to be much less efficacious, and some might develop a unique hostile drug response profile.”
What are the dangers if these medicines are thrown away or saved carelessly?
To realize a deeper understanding, we consulted an professional.
Dr Amit Saraf, director of inside drugs at Jupiter Hospital in Thane, known as improper disposal “an actual hazard.” “Some painkillers, nervousness medicines, or sedatives can result in overdose or poisoning if somebody takes them by mistake. Over time, improper disposal provides to antimicrobial resistance and environmental air pollution. Preserving expired medication at house additionally will increase the danger of self-medication or misuse,” stated Dr Saraf.
Agreeing with CDSCO’s stance, Dr Saraf stated that flushing sure high-risk medicines, like opioids and sedatives, prevents unintended consumption or misuse. “If they’re thrown within the family trash, kids, pets, or waste employees would possibly discover them. A few of these medication will be lethal even in a single dose if taken by somebody who shouldn’t,” stated Dr Saraf.
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Are you correctly disposing medicines? (Photograph: Freepik)
What’s the goal of this transfer?
The CDSCO goals to minimise hurt to folks, animals, and the surroundings. If these medicines are thrown away improperly, they’ll find yourself in landfills, contaminating soil and water. “Some might also be misused in the event that they get into the unsuitable arms. The steering on flushing applies to an inventory of 17 high-risk medication which might be harmful with out medical supervision,” asserted Dr Saraf.
What do medical doctors take into consideration this advisory?
Medical doctors typically assist the transfer, particularly these in public well being and pharmacology. “Secure disposal is a part of accountable prescribing. We frequently instruct sufferers on the way to take medicines, however we seldom clarify the way to dispose of them. This motion raises consciousness amongst healthcare suppliers and sufferers in regards to the life cycle of medicines, even after they’re now not used,” stated Dr Saraf.
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DISCLAIMER: This text relies on info from the general public area and/or the consultants we spoke to. All the time seek the advice of your well being practitioner earlier than beginning any routine.
