Why Medicine Disposal Matters
Improper disposal of antimicrobials and other medicines can result in environmental contamination, including traces of antibiotics being detected in rivers globally, and can contribute to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Ensuring proper disposal is therefore a critical component of antimicrobial stewardship and One Health approaches.
Global Survey Results
To address this gap, the Therapeutics Committee conducted a global online survey, distributed through WSAVA member associations and social media.
- 692 veterinarians from 74 countries responded, with 426 complete submissions.
- 47% reported that their countries had legislation in place for medicine disposal, while just 36% noted the existence of guidelines from veterinary bodies.
- Importantly, 63% of veterinarians stated that pet owners rarely or never return unused medications, often due to lack of incentives. In some countries, veterinary practices do not accept returns at all.
- Overall, 85% of veterinarians agreed that more work is needed to improve medicine return and disposal, with education for veterinary staff and pet owners identified as the most important solution.
“These findings show that while progress is being made, there are still significant global disparities in safe disposal practices,” explained Dr. Paweł Bęczkowski, WSAVA Therapeutics Committee member. “Raising awareness among veterinary professionals and pet owners is essential if we want to reduce the risks of environmental pollution and antimicrobial resistance.”
Sharing Knowledge Internationally
The first results of the study were presented by the Therapeutics Committee at the Regional Companion Animal Veterinary Association Congress in Thailand earlier this year. They will also be featured as a poster presentation at the ECVIM-CA Congress in Maastricht, the Netherlands, and at the WSAVA World Congress in Rio de Janeiro.
Through these presentations, the Therapeutics Committee aims to share its findings widely and to encourage further dialogue on safe medicine disposal among veterinary professionals and stakeholders around the world.