Abstract

Concerns about the increasing consumption of medicines have been raised due to their contribution to waste pollution and environmental impacts. However, limited research addresses the profile and disposal practices of household medicines, particularly in Latin America. Therefore, this study analyzes the consumption, waste, and disposal of medicines within households in the commune of La Serena, Chile. Primary data were gathered through a semi-structured survey administered directly to a random sample of 430 households. The results indicate that women play a central role in managing medicines within households, with four therapeutic groups being most frequently used in medicines and generating waste: anti-inflammatory/analgesics, antihypertensives, lowering cholesterol, and antidiabetics. Ninety-six% of respondents were unaware of the collection points for this waste, and they disposed of it mainly in household garbage (78%) and sewage (13%). However, over 70% of them considered storing or disposing of medicines in household garbage or sewage to be “dangerous or very dangerous.” Furthermore, 97% expressed support for collection campaigns. These results indicate the need for public policies to establish collection points for this waste and to inform consumers about the responsible use and proper disposal of medicines, particularly for women and patients with chronic illnesses.