FDA PROGRAMMES
Take Back Unwanted Medicines
The Take Back Unwanted Medicines (TBUM) initiative is a public health program launched by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to collect expired, unused, or unwanted medicines from consumers.
What is TBUM?
The Take Back Unwanted Medicines (TBUM) initiative is a public health program launched by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to collect expired, unused, or unwanted medicines from consumers. The goal is to ensure these medicines are disposed of safely and responsibly, preventing harm to individuals and the environment. The initiative is anchored in the Public Health Act 2012, Act 851, which mandates safe handling of pharmaceuticals.
Why Did the FDA Start TBUM?
- Growing Concern: Large quantities of expired and unused medicines are often stored in households, obtained through prescriptions or over-the-counter purchases.
- Health Risks: Retained medicines can be accidentally ingested by children or misused by teenagers, leading to poisoning or drug abuse.
- Environmental Impact: Improper disposal of medicines (e.g., flushing down toilets or throwing in trash) contaminates water sources and soil.
- Safe Disposal: TBUM provides a structured way for pharmacies and licensed chemical shops to collect and dispose of medicines safely.
Importance of Public Participation
Public involvement is critical to the success of TBUM:
- Protecting Families: Removing expired medicines from homes reduces risks of accidental ingestion and misuse.
- Safeguarding Communities: Prevents circulation of expired drugs that could be resold or misused.
- Environmental Safety: Ensures medicines do not pollute water bodies or soil.
- Strengthening Health Systems: Supports FDA’s mission to regulate and monitor medicines effectively.
How to Participate
- Drop-off Points: Consumers can return unwanted medicines to designated pharmacies and licensed chemical shops.
- Community Engagement: Public awareness campaigns encourage households to routinely check medicine cabinets and participate in the program.
- Pilot Program: Initially rolled out in 4 regions (Greater Accra, Ashanti Region, Volta Region and Western Region) with plans to expand nationwide.
Key Takeaways
- TBUM is a life-saving initiative that promotes safe disposal of medicines.
- Participation helps protect children, families, and the environment.
- The FDA urges all citizens to actively engage by returning expired or unused medicines to designated collection points.
Together, we can make our communities safer and healthier by supporting TBUM.
