Drug disposal flow diagrams and sustainable water quality

Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) are present in water sources in various parts of the world. Strategies have been implemented to control their presence in water sources. Strategies, both potential and existing, must be ascertained to be able to tackle the challenge effectively. This paper examines the feasibility of drug disposal flow diagrams (DDFDs) to control the presence of PPCPs in water sources. Surveys and key informant interviews were conducted in 3 regions in Ghana to assess how community pharmacies, consumers and other participants in the pharmaceutical value chain dispose of unused medicines. The information so gathered was put together in a flow diagram. From the results, DDFDs can be used to control PPCPs in water sources: since 57% of PPCPs disposed of in the areas where they are generated and 29% are discharged untreated into receiving waters, focus on these areas will yield the best outcomes.