Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of drug disposal in the United Arab Emirates

Background: Improper medication disposal poses environmental and public health risks. Despite global efforts to promote safe disposal practices, public awareness and adherence remain inadequate. This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of UAE residents regarding medication disposal and identify barriers to proper disposal methods. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among UAE residents. Data were collected using an online questionnaire assessing participants’ demographics, knowledge, disposal practices, and preferred educational platforms. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate associations between knowledge levels and various demographic factors. Results: A total of 538 participants were surveyed; 60.2% were male and 39.8% were female, with a mean age of 37.44 years. Only 41.4% demonstrated adequate knowledge of proper disposal methods, and 29.2% were aware of pharmacy take-back programs. Although 76.2% recognized the environmental risks of improper disposal, 61.5% discarded solid medications in household garbage, and 47.2% disposed of liquid medications in sinks. Social media (61.9%) was the most preferred educational platform, followed by pharmacists (54.6%) and physicians (28.4%). Key barriers included limited awareness and accessibility to disposal programs. Statistically significant predictors of awareness included medical background, prior advice, and routinely checking expired medicines (p < 0.05), while interest in learning was associated with higher income, checking expiry, larger household size, and female gender (p < 0.05). Unused medication accumulation was linked to education, employment, and presence of chronic disease in the household (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Despite understanding environmental risks, improper disposal remains widespread. Public education, pharmacy-based disposal initiatives, and policy interventions are essential to address these challenges. Future research should assess the impact of awareness programs on behavioral changes and environmental outcomes.