Regional excess medication disposal program focused on seniors

U.S. EPA recognizes that there is a need to research pharmaceuticals as environmental pollutants. Numerous studies have found prescription and over-the-counter medication in stream samples across 30 states. Today the public has two options for the disposal of these unwanted medications: landfills via trash or sewage systems via toilet or drain. A secondary problem of these medications is the rise in accidental poisonings among youth and seniors. Through an EPA grant a take back demonstration project was created using a local supermarket chain, students from the St. Louis College of Pharmacy, CINTAS Inc., and four senior services agencies that serve the St. Louis bi-state region. To collect data, a team of over 300 student and community volunteers were trained to identify and record data on all medications presented at the 20 collection sites as well as to conduct interviews and surveys of participants and non-participants. Limited demographic data was collected to prevent identification of the participants. However, all data on drugs presented such as quantity, dosage, type, and reason for their disposal was collected. Due to state and federal restrictions only non-controlled substances were accepted from participants. During the year-long collection process, over 1,600 participants turned in medications or completed the survey, which was lower than expected. However, the one million doses collected exceeded expectations. Data collected is currently under analysis. Preliminary findings indicate that 44% of the participants frequently flushed their medications as a means of disposal. There are implications for further research, modifications in practices, and policy changes.