Knowledge, attitude and disposing practice of unused and expired medicines among the general public in Malaysia

Objectives Unused medications have not only caused wastage, but improper disposal of unwanted medicines also has a negative impact on the environment and public health. The aim of this study was to study the public's knowledge, awareness and practice of disposing of unwanted or unused medicines in Malaysia. Methods This was a descriptive, cross-sectional survey conducted across Malaysia among the general public using a pre-validated questionnaire. A non-probability convenience sampling method was used for data collection. The approval of the study was obtained from ethics committee, and written consent was acquired from the participants prior to the data collection. Key findings The study involved 483 subjects. Only 13.8% of the respondents scored >80% in their knowledge of the proper disposal methods. Majority of the respondents were very mindful of their responsibility towards the environment (95.3%), living species on earth (94.6%) and family members (96.7%) attributable to unintentional harmful exposure to unused medicines. Respondents admitted that they have unused medicines because they stop taking the medicines when they feel better (76.9%), doctor has changed their treatment (50.3%), experienced unwanted side effects (49%), did not take the medicines as instructed/prescribed (47.2%) and did not feel better after taking the medicines (46%). A substantial correlation has been established between the knowledge of improper disposal methods and their current practices. Conclusions This finding suggested that a lack of knowledge and awareness is a major factor in the improper disposal of unused medicines. Therefore, an urgent need to increase public awareness through educational campaigns and Medication Return Program should be promoted more effectively.