Safe Disposal of Unused Medicines: A One Health Approach for National Systems

This guidance document addresses the environmental and health risks associated with the improper disposal of unused medicines and the persistent gaps in their management across households, healthcare facilities and agricultural production. It aims to strengthen the implementation of national systems for the safe disposal of unused medicines through a One Health approach. The document presents an integrated framework based on four key pillars: waste prevention, comprehensive take-back schemes, legal and policy frameworks, and awareness-raising across critical sectors. It provides policymakers and relevant stakeholders with evidence-based, practical guidance to support the development and implementation of context-specific strategies for preventing, reducing and ensuring the environmentally sound management of unused medicines and their associated impacts.