Pharmaceutical waste disposal: Karnataka pharmacies seek better medicine collection systems

Pharmacy associations across Karnataka have raised concerns over the improper disposal of expired, unused and unsold medicines, citing inadequate collection facilities and difficulties in returning expired stock. When discarded with household waste or poured down drains, these medicines can release harmful chemical residues, contaminate water, pose poisoning risks to people and animals, and contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

In May 2025, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) had issued a guidance document which places responsibility on retailers to return expired stock to suppliers or manufacturers within 30 days of expiry, and calls on manufacturers to ensure its disposal within six months of expiry. The guidance also recommends collection facilities for unused medicines from the public.