Medicines Agency launches campaign: don't throw old medicines in the bin

Starting today, the Medicines Agency is launching an awareness campaign urging Estonians to review their medicine cabinets during spring cleaning. The campaign emphasises that unused medicines must be returned to a pharmacy rather than thrown in the bin or flushed down the drain.

The Medicines Agency has launched an awareness campaign aimed at guiding Estonian residents in the correct handling of household medicine waste. The campaign timing coincides with the spring cleaning season, when people organise their cupboards and storage spaces.

According to the agency, medicine cabinets are often overlooked during spring cleaning, yet they may contain expired or unused medicines that require proper disposal. Old and leftover medicines must not be thrown in with household waste or flushed down the drain, as this damages the environment and may affect drinking water quality.

The correct way to dispose of medicine waste is to take it to the nearest pharmacy, which has designated collection containers for this purpose. Pharmacies are obligated to accept unused and expired medicines free of charge and ensure their proper utilisation.

In addition to proper waste handling, the Medicines Agency recommends regularly reviewing your home medicine supply: check expiry dates on packages, remove damaged packaging, and ensure medicines are stored according to the manufacturer's instructions. An organised and up-to-date medicine supply helps prevent medication errors.