DOI: njcpt.com.ng/101.1.2.12
Corresponding Author: ROSIJI A. D
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba,
Lagos State, Nigeria
(Orchid ID:0000-0002-2009-1953) 2Pharmacy Department, Lagos
EMail: graciouspj@yahoo.com; graciouspj7@gmail.com
Abstract
Background: Large quantities of prescribed medications remain unused. Several studies have investigated the
generation of unused drugs in households. One such study had 58.0% of participants with unused medications in
their possession. However, there is a paucity of data on knowledge of and adherence to guidelines on ‘unused
medications disposal’ by in-patients.
Objectives: This study was conducted to assess medication disposal knowledge and practice among hospitalised
patients in Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 278 in-patients in Lagos University Teaching
Hospital between April and May 2017. Convenience sampling was used to recruit the participants, and data was
collected through a face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed with SPSS,
version 21.0. The variable of interest was described in the form of statements and tables.
Results: Close to half of the patients (45.3%) had unused medications. The most common reasons were excess
supply (36.6%), improved medical condition (33%) and change in medication prescription (23.2%). Of the 247
respondents, 107 (43.3%) disposed of their unused medications in the garbage, and only 54.1% identified
incineration as the most appropriate method. Environmental pollution (90.3%) was the most common
consequence reported by the respondents.
Conclusion: Knowledge and practice of unused medications disposal by in-patients in LUTH was inadequate.
Most disposal practices indicated by the participants were against recommended guidelines on safe and
appropriate pharmaceutical waste disposal. Awareness about appropriate guidelines for disposing of unused
medicines should be created among the public.
Keywords: disposal, knowledge, practice, unused medications, guidelines, hospitalised-patient