The Netherlands has signalled support for forthcoming European legislation that would allow patients to return unused medication to pharmacies for safe redistribution, in a move aimed at reducing waste, lowering costs and addressing drug shortages.
The Dutch health ministry said research shows that reusing certain medicines can be done safely under controlled conditions. Initial implementation would focus on high-value drugs with long shelf lives, such as cancer treatments.
Bart van den Bemt, who led research into the reuse of oncology medicines, said large volumes of unused drugs are currently discarded, representing both a financial and environmental loss. His findings suggest that up to 90% of returned medication could be safely reused if properly monitored, including through temperature controls and tamper-proof sealing.
At present, redistribution is restricted due to concerns over counterfeit medicines entering supply chains. However, the proposed EU framework would establish safeguards and standardised procedures.
Dutch authorities estimate the measure could generate annual savings of up to €50 million while reducing pharmaceutical pollution. The legislation would require amendments to national law and is expected to take several years to implement fully.
Read more via Dutch News
