Proper Disposal of Unwanted Medicines at Ascent Pharmacy

Have you recently found old, out-of-date medicines in your bathroom cabinet or medicine cupboard and considered throwing them in the bin? You're not alone. Studies suggest that in the US, 29% of people would throw unwanted medicines in the bin, and 26% would flush them down the toilet.

Why is this a Problem?

Improper disposal of medicines can have serious environmental impacts. Studies have detected active ingredients from medicines in groundwater at landfill sites and even in treated water from wastewater plants, posing risks to the environment and potentially to human health.

How Can You Help the Environment?

Return Unwanted Medicines to the Pharmacy:

• All pharmacies in England accept unwanted medicines, whether tablets or liquids, at no cost.
• You don't need to return them to the pharmacy where you bought them.
• By returning medicines, you ensure they are disposed of safely and responsibly.

Avoid Medication Waste:

• In the 2022/23 financial year, the NHS drug bill was approximately £10.4 billion, with about £300 million wasted due to unnecessary ordering and prescribing errors.
• Next time you order a prescription, ask yourself, "Do I really need this?"

What Happens to Returned Medicines?

At Ascent Pharmacy, we use a specialist waste contractor, funded by the NHS, to safely dispose of returned medicines.

What Can't Be Returned?

Unfortunately, pharmacies in England cannot accept used sharps or needles. Please consult your GP or local council for information on sharps disposal in your area. We can accept all other types of medicines.

Take Action Today:

• Check your home for expired or unwanted medicines.
• Bring them to any Ascent Pharmacy for safe disposal.
• Help protect the environment and reduce medication waste.

For more information, visit us at Ascent Pharmacy or contact us on 01332 429391.