Pharmaceutical Waste Reduction Strategies
Maximize shelf life
Drugs are stored at appropriate temperature, light level, moisture, etc. such that their shelf-life is prolonged or maximized. Or a facility may switch to premixed products, which have a longer shelf life than reconstituted products.
Reduces Amount: Yes
Reduces Toxicity: No
Examples of Applying this Strategy
Generic Drug: Succinylcholine Chloride
Succinylcholine was identified as a waste reduction opportunity for the Mercy Health System in Janesville Wisconsin. The useful shelf-life of this drug can be extended by refrigeration.
Proprietary Drug(s): Anectine, Quelicin
Delivery Method(s): Injectable
For more information:
Weber, Racher. "Pharmaceutical Pollution Prevention in Healthcare." SHWEC, University of Wisconsin Extension, 2008. Web. 14 June 2013.
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Generic Drug: Propofol
Replacing traditional propofol medication with 28-day propofol in veterinary clinics will reduce anesthesic waste. Traditional propofol has a shelf life of 48 hours maximum once opened. The 28-day propofol contains a benzyl alcohol preservative that allows a shelf life of 28 days.
Proprietary Drug(s): Diprivan, Propofol, Propoven
Delivery Method(s): Injectable
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