Avoid Medicine Waste - Only Order What You Need

Every year, around 1.2 million medicines go to waste in Surrey Heartlands, and it’s having a big impact on the environment.

When medicines are wasted, they can’t be reused or recycled, and this adds to pollution and harms wildlife.

It also means that valuable NHS resources are being wasted.

Here are some easy ways you can help:

• Only order the medicines you really need. If you skip an item on your prescription this time, it’ll still be there for you next time.
• Keep all your medicines in one safe spot at home so you can easily see what’s left.
• Use one pack at a time to keep track of what you’ve already taken.
• Mark your calendar about a week before your prescription is due to remind yourself to check what you’ve got at home. This helps you plan ahead for holidays or weekends.

If you’re not sure about your medicines or have any questions, your local pharmacy team is always happy to help.

And don’t forget—if you’ve got leftover or out-of-date medicines, take them back to the pharmacy for safe disposal.

By only ordering what you need, you’re helping to look after the planet, reduce waste, and ensure medicines are available for everyone who needs them.

Together, we can make a big difference for our environment and our community.

Find out more about medicine waste here: https://www.surreyheartlands.org/medicines-waste

Published on 2 October 2025