Return of Unwanted Medicines
The Return Unwanted Medicines (RUM) Scheme provides a safe, easy, and environmentally friendly way to dispose of unwanted, expired, or unused medications. This initiative ensures that medications are handled and disposed of properly, protecting both public safety and the environment.
Objectives
- To reduce the risks associated with expired or unwanted medicines being kept at home.
- To prevent improper disposal methods that could harm the environment or public health.
- To provide a free and convenient disposal service through community pharmacies.
Key Features
- Safe Disposal: Participating IPA Pharmacies have special RUM bins for secure collection of unwanted medicines.
- Environmental Protection: Medicines disposed of through the RUM Scheme are incinerated in an environmentally responsible manner, preventing contamination of water supplies and the food chain.
- Free and Accessible: Consumers can return their household medicines to any participating pharmacy at no cost.
- Public Awareness: The program encourages individuals to regularly check their medicine cabinets for expired or no-longer-needed medications.
How IPA Pharmacists Can Help
- Advice on Expired Medicines: Pharmacists can help you understand which medicines are no longer safe to use.
- Secure Collection: Your Pharmacist will ensure unwanted medicines are placed in secure bins for proper disposal.
- Education on Safe Disposal: Learn why throwing medicines in the garbage or flushing them down the drain is harmful and how the RUM Scheme prevents these risks.
- Support Regular Cleanouts: Pharmacists can assist in identifying medicines you no longer need and recommend replacements or alternatives if required.
Please note: This service may not be available at all IPA Pharmacies.
Important Information
The information provided on this website is shared in good faith for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of any specific treatment, product, or service, nor is it a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals regarding matters related to your health, wellbeing, or other personal concerns. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, we cannot accept responsibility for any injury, loss, damage, or consequences resulting from its use.
