CDSCO has issued the Guidelines on Disposal of Expired/Unused Drugs. Proper disposal of expired or unused medicines is vital to safeguard public health and the environment. Improper disposal contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and poses risks to humans and animals. The DCC and DTAB have endorsed guidelines (WI/01/DCC-P-25) for safe disposal. All are requested to promote adoption of these guidelines among stakeholders in your State/UT to support AMR mitigation efforts.
The safe disposal of expired and unused medicines is essential to protect public health, animal health, and the environment. Improper disposal can lead to contamination of water and soil, accidental poisoning, and significantly contribute to the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Expired drugs are those past their labeled expiry date, while unused drugs refer to medications not consumed by the intended patient. Recognizing the seriousness of this issue, the 58th Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) meeting proposed the formation of a sub-committee to develop a guidance document. This document (WI/01/DCC-P-25) was later reviewed and endorsed by the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), which recommended its circulation by CDSCO to all State/UT Drugs Controllers. States are now encouraged to promote these guidelines among stakeholders to ensure safe disposal practices. Adoption of these measures is a critical step in strengthening public health systems and combating AMR across the country.