THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST IN THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF MEDICATIONS AND ITS SOCIO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS

Abstract

Medications are important tools to help in the prevention and recovery of people's health. The consumption of medications generates waste, making it necessary to dispose of them correctly, as discarding them directly in the trash or toilet can cause serious harm to the environment and public health. The methodology was based on a bibliographic research, which was conducted through the qualitative analysis of studies already conducted on the aforementioned theme and aims to guide the population on the correct disposal of medications, emphasizing the importance of pharmaceutical guidance on this issue. In light of the study conducted, it is concluded that it is of utmost importance to educate the population about the existence of appropriate locations that receive medications and dispose of them properly, where the pharmacist, as a health educator, becomes essential for guiding the population both on rational use and the proper disposal of expired or unused medications.