Joining the SMARxT DISPOSAL effort that seeks to reduce medication levels in the nation’s streams and waterways, Walmart has posted signs in its 3,500 pharmacies and will print disposal information on all pharmacy bags.
“Our customers are looking for environmentally friendly ways to dispose of their unused and unwanted medications, and SMARxT DISPOSAL can provide the answers our customers are seeking,” John Agwunobi, MD, MPH, MBA, President of Walmart Health and Wellness, said in the announcement. “We are proud to be part of this solution and we know that our communities will benefit from this partnership.”
Educating consumers to reduce environmental harm by not flushing unused medications down the toilet or pouring them down the drain is the goal of SMARxT DISPOSAL, a national partnership between APhA, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA).
While flushing unused medications down the toilet was recommended in the past, current science indicates that the proper way to dispose of them is to place the medication in a sealable plastic bag; add kitty litter, sawdust, or coffee grounds; and then seal the plastic bag before putting it in the trash, according to the SMARxT DISPOSAL website.
SMARxT DISPOSAL was unveiled at the 2007 APhA Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Atlanta as a partnership between APhA and the Fish and Wildlife Service. PhRMA joined the initiative at APhA2008 in San Diego.
In related news, DEA’s second National Take Back Initiative day will take place at local collection sites on April 30.
Related resources on www.pharmacist.com
