Kindness shouldn’t extend to giving away medicines

MANY neighbourhood and community chat groups are increasingly being used to give away unused medicines. When people post that they have unexpired medication available, it’s claimed within minutes. While the intention is undoubtedly generous, giving away prescription medicines should be discouraged.

Medicines are intended for specific individuals based on a doctor’s diagnosis, medical history, age, allergies, existing illnesses, and the other medicines they are taking. A medicine that is safe and effective for one person may be inappropriate or even dangerous for someone else.

It seems that many people are willing to obtain medication without consulting a doctor or pharmacist. This amounts to self-prescription, with people relying on their own judgement or the advice of others rather than qualified healthcare professionals.

The risks are significant. Similar symptoms may be caused by different medical conditions. Taking the wrong medicine may mask symptoms, delay proper diagnosis, or worsen the illness. There is also the possibility of allergic reactions, harmful drug interactions, incorrect dosage, and inappropriate duration of treatment. Another concern is quality. Although the medicine may be unexpired, there is no assurance that it has been stored correctly. Some medicines require protection from heat, humidity or sunlight. Improper storage may reduce effectiveness or compromise quality.

Instead of redistributing unused medicines, the public should be encouraged to dispose of them responsibly. Many pharmacies and healthcare facilities accept returned medicines for safe disposal. Healthcare professionals can also help by prescribing appropriate quantities to minimise leftover medicines.

Greater public awareness is needed to remind consumers that prescription medicines should never be treated as items to be exchanged. The safest place for unused medicines is back with a pharmacy or an authorised collection programme, not in someone else’s medicine cabinet.

WONG SOO KAN

Petaling Jaya