Medicines waste in Essex is a significant issue. Around one in ten medicines dispensed are not used. Each year, approximately £10 million worth of medicines are wasted across Essex, including inhalers, pain medicines, and creams.
When patients only order what they need, the NHS can use its resources more effectively. This helps ensure funding remains available for essential services and patient care. You can play an important role by checking your medicines before ordering repeat prescriptions.
Why reducing medicines waste matters
Reducing medicines waste in Essex helps protect your health, improve safety, and reduce environmental harm.
Medicines have expiry dates. If medicines expire, they may not work properly and may not support your treatment.
Ordering more medicines than you need can also contribute to national supply shortages. As a result, other patients may experience delays in receiving essential treatment.
Proper storage and use of medicines help protect you and others.
You should:
- store medicines in a secure place, out of reach of children and pets
- keep only the medicines you currently need
- take medicines exactly as prescribed
- return unwanted or expired medicines to your pharmacy
Never share prescribed medicines. A medicine that is safe for you may harm someone else.
Returning unused medicines helps prevent environmental damage.
You can help by:
- returning unwanted or expired medicines to your pharmacy
- ordering only the medicines you need
- checking your medicines regularly
Pharmacies cannot reuse medicines once they leave the premises. Therefore, reducing waste helps protect NHS resources and the environment.
How to reduce medicines waste in Essex
You can take simple steps to reduce medicines waste and improve your care.
Do
- request a medicines review if you have not had one recently
- tell your GP or pharmacist if you stop taking a medicine
- check what medicines you already have before ordering more
- order only the medicines you need
- bring your medicines with you when attending hospital
- store medicines safely and at the correct temperature
- return unused or expired medicines to your pharmacy
Do not
- put medicines in household waste
- flush medicines down the toilet
- share prescribed medicines with others
These actions help ensure medicines remain safe and available for those who need them.
Medicines reviews and support
Regular medicines reviews help ensure your treatment remains safe and effective. During a review, your GP, pharmacist, or healthcare professional will discuss your medicines and answer any questions.
You should attend medicines reviews when invited. However, you can also request a review at any time if you have concerns.
If you stop taking a medicine or want to change your treatment, speak to your GP or pharmacist. They will help you make safe and informed decisions and may recommend alternative treatments if appropriate.
Further information about medicines waste
You can find additional information and support through the following resources:
- Me + My Medicines – It’s OK to Ask
- Speak to your GP practice or local pharmacy
Healthcare professionals can provide personalised advice to help you use medicines safely and reduce waste.