Recycling Discarded Drugs: Improving Access to Oral Antineoplastic Drugs

Oncologist. 2019 Mar;24(3):291-292. doi: 10.1634/theoncologist.2018-0565. Epub 2018 Dec 19.

Abstract

It is common for patients to have limited access to oral antineoplastics or to discontinue treatment because of cost. Such oral treatments are also discontinued because of toxicity, disease progression, or death, resulting in unused portions of these medications. Policies for the subsequent use or destruction of unused drugs exist, but none completely address the need for methods of recycling back to the patients in need. This article addresses this wastefulness and ways to minimize it so that more patients benefit.

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents