Medicines are 25% of the NHS carbon footprint and currently cannot be recycled for reuse. We destroy over a tonne of returned medicines through pharmacies every working day. We also know people inappropriately throw them away in general waste and down sinks and toilets, which is causing harm to wildlife and the environment.

NHS finances are under significant pressure, and we can all do our bit to help, whether you are a patient, a concerned member of the public or a healthcare professional. By reducing medicines waste we can potentially save huge amounts of money; money better spent ensuring our patients get the treatment they need.

Every day, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) dispenses around 100,000 medicines in the community – and at an average cost of nearly £11, that’s more than £1 million every single day.

However, latest figures show that around 10% of medicines are thrown away, either because they’re not needed or haven’t been taken – a total of more than £100,000 every day, thrown away. That’s the equivalent of a day’s wages for more than 700 nurses, or more than 200 hospital consultants.

Anne Thomson, Lead Pharmacist, Clinical Services NHSGGC said: “Because medicines are free on the NHS we sometimes forget about the costs. We’re asking everyone to think about what small steps that they can take to help us reduce unnecessary prescribing and medicines waste.”

There are things we can all do to help reduce waste:

• Resist the urge to over-order medicines: Check what medicines you have at home before you re-order, and only order what you really need when you need it.
• Take control of your medication: Speak to your GP, pharmacy team or nurse about reviewing your medication to make sure they are still right for you
• Know how to dispose of unused medicines: If you have medicines at home that are out of date or no longer required, return them to your local pharmacy for safe disposal.

Dr John O’Dowd, Clinical Director, Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) said: “People often ask what to do if they’re receiving medicines they don’t need and may be worried they will get into trouble. It’s important you tell your GP practice so we can review and update your records. GP practices have pharmacy staff working directly with them alongside your community pharmacy who can help.

“Some people may be contacted directly by their GP practice to switch a medicine if there’s an equivalent, which is more economical or if they would benefit from a review.

“Because we can’t reuse medicines once they leave the community pharmacy, we would encourage people to check their prescription bag for items not required when collecting and let the pharmacy team know.

“It’s also important to consider making any social and lifestyle improvements to improve your mental and physical health. For some conditions this can avoid the need for medicines altogether.”

If you want to find out more about what activities are on in your area visit Scotland's Service Directory | NHS inform.

Find out how you can help stop Medicines Waste