Instead of returning unused antibiotics to the local community pharmacy for safe disposal and destruction, many patients hold onto these unused antibiotics for future use or sharing with others; or dispose of them in household waste, sinks, and toilets.
Our research aims to increase return of antimicrobial medicines to community pharmacies, thus reducing inappropriate self-medication and environmental exposure from antimicrobials, which could drive antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Current work
Our projects explore the return of medicines to community pharmacist across the Midlands in the UK, with a focus on Leicestershire.
Current projects include:
- Describing the normal return rates of medicines to community pharmacies
- Investigating the impact of antibiotic amnesty campaigns
- Exploring the attitudes and behaviours of pharmacy staff regarding promoting antibiotic returns
Collaborators & Partners
Our research benefits from a number of collaborations and partnerships:
- NHS England – Midlands
- University of Wolverhampton, School of Pharmacy
- University of Birmingham, School of Pharmacy
Research team
Dr Ryan Hamilton
Associate Professor of Antimicrobials & Consultant Pharmacist
Miss Helen Root
Associate Professor of Clinical Pharmacy
Mrs Kunjal Pabari
Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy
Mr Adrian Rogerson
Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy