How should a pharmacist manage expired medications?

The correct approach for managing expired medications is to dispose of them according to local regulations. Pharmacists have a professional responsibility to ensure the safe and proper disposal of medications that are no longer usable, as expired medications can pose health risks and safety concerns if not handled correctly.

Local regulations provide guidelines for disposal methods that protect the environment and public health. This may include returning medications through designated take-back programs, following specific disposal techniques, or utilizing disposal facilities that can handle pharmaceuticals safely.

In contrast, keeping expired medications on the shelf for future use is inappropriate, as these products are no longer guaranteed to be effective or safe. Returning them to suppliers is generally not an option unless specified by the supplier's return policy, and merely disregarding them without action could lead to environmental pollution or accidental ingestion. Therefore, adhering strictly to local disposal regulations is essential for pharmacists to maintain compliance and uphold the safety of their practices and communities.