적절한 폐의약품 처리 방법에 대한 약대생의 인식 및 지식 설문조사

A Survey on the Perception and Knowledge Level of Appropriate Medication Disposal Methods Among Pharmacy Students

BACKGROUND Research into pharmacy students’ awareness of unused medications in terms of experience, knowledge, social and environmental issues, and how to effectively collect unused medications remains limited. METHODS In January 2022, an online survey was distributed to pharmacy students who are Korean National Association for Pharmaceutical Students members. The questionnaire comprised four sections: 1) experience; 2) knowledge and awareness; 3) awareness of social and environmental problems; and 4) opinions on promoting the proper disposal of unused medications. A total of 113 responses were obtained, of which 100 were valid. RESULTS Roughly two-thirds of the respondents revealed knowledge of the proper disposal of unused medications, but 60% of the respondents discarded unused medications in trash cans which is not a proper disposal method. Less than half of the respondents (42%) had opted to dispose of unused medications in pharmacies. All respondents answered that unused medications should be disposed at designated places, but 65% of respondents claimed they should be disposed separately by drug formulation. Only 62% of the respondents mentioned the possibility of drug abuse due to indiscriminate disposal of unused medications, indicating a slightly lower level of awareness in terms of environmental pollution (94%). CONCLUSION Although the changing policy for disposing of unused medication is a potential opportunity and motivation for pharmacists to expand their role, no systematic education exists for future pharmacists. Thus, creating an environment that can educate prospective pharmacists on the current issues and policies of pharmacist society is crucial.