Reverse Logistics: an approach to raising awareness of the risks caused by the incorrect disposal of expired drugs

Abstract

The growth in the manufacture of medicines and their consumption has potentiated an exponential growth in the improper disposal of medicines. This improper disposal comes from the population's lack of information or choice to do it the right way, increasing the risks of contamination of the environment and of the human being. This research seeks to contribute to the awareness of the risks that the incorrect disposal of expired drugs produces in the environment. This study was applied to Brazil, specifically to the state of Ceará. A quantitative methodology by questionnaire was developed with the population (N=71) and pharmacies in Ceará (N=7). The main results of this investigation indicate that there is misinformation among most of the population regarding the correct disposal practices and the impact of doing it incorrectly on the environment and the population. As for the establishments that sell medicines, there is a lack of interest in creating policies for the awareness of correct disposal. This study is intended to be of added value to government organizations, the academic community, and all those interested in reverse logistics in health and sustainability.