Pharmaceutical waste management in pharmacy practice-challenges of regulatory implementation and public health protection

Abstract

Pharmaceutical waste represents a significant public health and environmental concern due to the presence of biologically active substances that may enter the environment and adversely affect human health and ecosystems. Proper management of unused and expired medicines is essential, as inappropriate disposal may contribute to soil and water contamination and the development of antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the implementation of the current regulatory framework and identify the key challenges in pharmaceutical waste management in pharmacy practice. The study included a field survey conducted in 11 community pharmacies in the municipality of New Belgrade, supported by a review of the scientific literature and the regulatory framework of the Republic of Serbia. Data were collected through structured interviews with responsible pharmacists and an assessment of pharmaceutical waste management practices. The results showed that all surveyed pharmacies complied with the prescribed procedures for managing pharmaceutical waste and cooperated with licensed waste management operators. However, most pharmacies did not accept expired medicines from the public due to high disposal costs, limited storage capacity, and inadequate funding mechanisms. In addition, insufficient public awareness regarding the proper disposal of unused medicines was identified. The findings emphasize the need to improve pharmaceutical waste collection systems, strengthen implementation of the existing regulatory framework, and enhance institutional support and continuous education of healthcare professionals and the public to better protect public health and the environment.