There is an urgent need to address the major issue of pharmaceutical waste generation during eye surgery. The trash comprises unused or lightly used topical medicines that are discarded during cataract surgery. Multiple studies show this reality, revealing that many eye drops go unused after disposal, resulting in wasteful environmental effect. Fortunately, a multifaceted approach can effectively address this issue.
Standardized Reuse of Multidose Eyedrops
Surgical centers and hospitals should develop practices that allow for the safe reuse of multidose eye drops on many patients. This demonstrated safe practice provides enormous environmental and economic benefits. A collaborative study project utilizing video recordings of skilled workers providing preoperative eye drops found no cases of contamination throughout a large number of administrations.
Notably, over 50% of surgeons currently avoid using multidose drugs due to institutional policies prohibiting reuse, according to a related task force survey. Furthermore, studies show that implementing a program for multiuse dilating drops in the preoperative environment can dramatically minimize drug use. Additionally, this leads in significant cost reductions for institutions.
Utilizing Medications Until Manufacturer Expiration
Current procedures sometimes entail prematurely discarding correctly kept multidose eye drops, relying on arbitrary post-opening use-by dates rather than manufacturer expiration dates. Dr. Wiley Chambers, Director of the FDA Office of Specialty Medicine's Division of Ophthalmology, emphasized in a 2021 editorial that the 28-day use-by date misconception arose from regulations designed for injectable multidose drugs rather than topical ophthalmic treatments. This misapplication has resulted in the wasteful disposal of partially used eye drops much before their expiration date.
Empowering Patients with Take-Home Medication
Patients should be allowed to take partially used topical drugs home after surgery. According to a recent poll, only a small percentage of ophthalmologists follow this approach. This is mostly due to facility regulations and pharmaceutical waste constraints. Regional variances demand addressing these hurdles, possibly at the state level.
Illinois is a successful example, with a relevant medical society partnership resulting in a resolution that allows for the proper labeling and distribution of unused portions of preoperatively ordered topical drugs for post-surgical care. The model law, which is easily accessible on the American Academy of Ophthalmology website, provides a useful foundation for other states looking to establish comparable restrictions allowing widespread patient take-home usage of partially used ophthalmic drugs.
Enhancing Staff Education and Awareness
Educating surgical staff and healthcare providers about pharmaceutical waste reduction strategies is crucial for successful implementation. Regular training sessions and workshops can help staff understand the importance of minimizing waste and adopting best practices for medication handling and disposal. Increasing awareness among healthcare workers regarding regulatory guidelines, cost-saving opportunities, and environmental impacts can foster a culture of sustainability within ophthalmic surgery centers. Additionally, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between surgeons, pharmacists, and nursing staff can lead to more effective waste reduction strategies.
Trihaz Solutions helps healthcare facilities implement sustainable waste management procedures. We provide comprehensive solutions for the safe disposal of expired and unwanted pharmaceuticals, guaranteeing compliance with all applicable legislation. Contact Trihaz Solutions today to learn how we can work with your facility to reduce pharmaceutical waste and promote a healthier environment. 
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