EFFECTIVENESS OF REVERSE LOGISTICS FOR MEDICINES: A LITERATURE REVIEW ON CHALLENGES AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Abstract

The improper disposal of expired or unused medicines may contribute to the presence of pharmaceutical residues in soil, water, and sewage systems. This study analyzes the contribution of pharmaceutical reverse logistics to reducing these environmental impacts, considering the factors that condition the effectiveness of the system in the pharmaceutical sector. An integrative literature review was conducted using a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory approach, with searches in Google Scholar, SciELO, PubMed, and journal platforms and institutional repositories. Thirty-two articles were assessed, of which 20 were excluded according to the established criteria, and 12 composed the final corpus, complemented by an analysis of Brazilian Law No. 12,305/2010 and Decree No. 10,388/2020. The results indicate that effectiveness depends on the articulation of seven dimensions: access, continuity, information, traceability, final destination, monitoring, and coordination. The analysis also shows that the system involves operational dimensions, related to the execution of the reverse flow, and relational dimensions, related to communication and integration among stakeholders. The main gaps identified were the lack of standardized data, difficulties in proving final disposal, unequal access, and limited measurement of environmental benefits. It is concluded that the existence of regulations and collection points is not sufficient to ensure effective results. Shared responsibility must be transformed into a continuous and coordinated process supported by information and performance indicators.