Sustainability in the Pharma Industry: How to Take Action

Every industry in this country has a commitment to environmental care and responsibility. In the context of the pharmaceutical industry, let us consider the following actions:

• Reducing plastic usage.

• Establishing agreements with suppliers committed to low greenhouse gas emissions.

• Utilizing green technologies.

• Increasing recycling efforts.

• Preventing contamination of aquifers.

• Collecting expired medications.

• Promoting awareness against self-medication.

• Avoiding the commercialization of medications with short expiration dates.

Mexico, following Brazil, is the second-largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Latin America. However, unlike Brazil, our country has yet to develop mass incineration processes for pharmaceuticals.

Self-medication poses risks when medications are used without proper medical prescriptions or when dosage, frequency, and administration guidelines are not followed. Expired medications must be disposed of in hermetically sealed and impermeable containers, which are unfortunately scarce in both chain pharmacies and health centers. When compared to other Latin American countries, the issue of chemical waste disposal is even more severe, presenting significant challenges for our rivers and seas.

In Mexico City, the Ministry of Health, through the Agency for Sanitary Protection (AGEPSA), provides recommendations to mitigate health risks associated with the improper use and disposal of expired medications. Expired drugs should not be discarded in household trash, drains, or water sources. Furthermore, they should not be kept in homes to avoid accidental consumption, which could lead to adverse reactions.

It is a concerning reality that over 70% of Mexican households retain medications in first-aid kits or keep drugs nearing or past their expiration dates. This often occurs because people wish to preserve the brand or name of previously prescribed medications.

The classification of medications, according to Article 226 of the General Health Law, is as follows:

• Group I: Narcotics
  Require a barcode prescription, valid for 30 days.

• Group II: Psychotropics
  Require a printed prescription with an autograph signature, valid for 30 days.

• Group III: Psychotropics
  Require a printed prescription with an autograph signature, valid for 180 days.
  Note: Groups II and III classifications are determined by the regulatory authority in accordance with the health registry.

• Group IV:
  Prescription medications sold exclusively in pharmacies. The prescription must include complete name and address details, an autograph signature, the doctor's professional license number, and educational institution, as well as the date, in compliance with Article 29 of the Health Supplies Regulation (RIS).

• Group V:
  Over-the-counter medications sold only in pharmacies.

• Group VI:
  Over-the-counter medications available in other formally established establishments.

The expiration date of medications is printed on packaging, boxes, bottles, blisters, and containers. These should be disposed of in hermetically sealed and impermeable containers designed for safe disposal, available in pharmacies and local health centers.

Proper disposal of medications prevents environmental contamination, protects flora, fauna, and aquifers, and deters the sale of counterfeit drugs. Additionally, it mitigates health risks associated with consuming degraded medications and materials. These efforts underpin the establishment of COFEPRIS (Federal Commission for the Protection Against Sanitary Risks).

In Mexico City, SEDESA emphasizes that all medications pose risks when used without medical supervision or when dosage, frequency, route of administration, and intended condition are disregarded.

According to AGEPSA, medications should be stored in easily cleanable and durable environments with natural ventilation. Such spaces should avoid excessive heat, vapor condensation, and dust accumulation. Medications must also be kept away from:

• Alcoholic beverages

• Food items

• Harmful fauna

• Tobacco products or vaping devices

• Any substances that could compromise the integrity, purity, and preservation of the medications

Strict regulations govern the storage and distribution of medications, blood derivatives, vaccines, and toxoids. Non-compliance with these guidelines can result in sanctions, warnings, fines, or permanent closures of establishments.

Finally, a great deal remains to be done to enhance sustainability within the pharmaceutical industry. The industry must take full responsibility for the controlled destruction of chemical waste. Additionally, the dissemination of a culture of proper collection in establishments and households must be a shared commitment between the private sector and authorities to benefit patients, medication consumers, and the environment.

"Our country is home to all of us." Let us protect Mexico.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.