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Published Online, 11 May 2004, www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1D619.
 The Annals of Pharmacotherapy: Vol. 38, No. 7, pp. 1165-1168. DOI 10.1345/aph.1D619
© 2004 Harvey Whitney Books Company.
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PHARMACOECONOMICS

Economic Consequences of Unused Medications in Houston, Texas

Kevin W Garey, PharmD

Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences and Administration, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, Houston, TX

Mikki L Johle, PharmD

Pharmacy Resident, Department of Clinical Sciences and Administration, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston

Kathy Behrman, BS

Pharmacist, Kroger Pharmacy, Houston, TX

Melinda M Neuhauser, PharmD

Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Sciences and Administration, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston

Reprints: Kevin W Garey PharmD, Department of Clinical Sciences and Administration, College of Pharmacy, University of Houston, 1441 Moursund St., Houston, TX 77030-3047, fax 713/795-8383, kgarey{at}uh.edu

BACKGROUND: It is likely that a large amount of unused and outdated medications exists in households throughout the US; however, the amount and potential costs of these medications are unknown.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the amount, types, and costs of unused medications present in a neighborhood surrounding a community pharmacy in Houston, Texas.

METHODS: A community trial was conducted between April and September 2002. This pilot study investigated the quantity and types of drugs returned to a community pharmacy over a 6-month period.

RESULTS: During the study period, approximately 17 000 oral pills worth over $26 000 were collected in 1315 medication containers. Medications collected were from all drug classes and types (pharmaceutical samples, over-the-counter and prescription drugs).

CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that an enormous amount of unused medications were present in a community in the US. Community pharmacies may be an ideal venue to collect and destroy these unused drugs.

Key Words: economics, unused drugs

Published Online, May 11, 2004. www.theannals.com, DOI 10.1345/aph.1D619




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Copyright © 2004 by Harvey Whitney Books Company.