An assessment of the Storage and Disposal of Unused Medications in Southern Jordan: Knowledge and Socio-Demographic Influences

Abstract

Background: Improper storage and disposal of unused medications in households raise global concerns due to environmental, health, and animal welfare impacts. Objectives: This study aims to investigate medication storage and disposal practices in southern Jordan while identifying socio-demographic factors contributing to household medicines' storage and evaluating the level of knowledge regarding medicines disposal. Methods: Between January and July 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted in southern Jordan. In the current study, an online questionnaire was designed based on a comprehensive review of relevant literature. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software. The Chi-Square test and logistic regression were employed to assess the relationships between socio-demographic factors and the storage of medications. Results: All participants stored unused medications at home, with 43.4% expired. The primary reason for storage, cited by 49.8% of respondents, was the anticipation of future use. Analgesics were the most commonly stored type and kept in kitchens and bathrooms. Logistic regression analysis revealed significant links between storage practices and socio-demographic factors such as age group more than 61 (p-value <0.001), Illiterate (p-value = 0.006), large family size (p-value = 0.012), no health insurance (p-value <0.001), and high income (p-value = 0.027), with gender having no significant effect. Half of the participants throwing medications in the garbage. The Pharmacists played a pivotal role as the primary source of information on medication disposal, yet there was a lack of knowledge concerning the consequences of improper disposal. Conclusion: The prevalence of storage of unused medications and improper disposal was high in southern Jordan. This study underscores the necessity for government policies regulating medicine dispensing to ensure appropriate quantities and reduce excess household storage. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns should educate individuals on safe disposal methods for unused medications at home and assist in mitigating associated risks.