Neuquén region collects 89 kilograms of expired medications

The Casa Segura campaign in the Alto Neuquén region of Argentina collected 89.54 kilograms of medication during its fourth intensive phase, held between September 28 and October 14. The total weight includes 62.4 kilograms of expired or obsolete drugs and 27.14 kilograms of medication suitable for reuse.

Initiated in 2023, the program aims to prevent environmental contamination and public health risks. Improper disposal of pharmaceuticals—such as flushing them down toilets or discarding them in regular trash—can contaminate soil and water, damage ecosystems, and contribute to the development of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. The project was developed by health teams, including the Zonal Climate Change and Health Table and the pharmacy sector of the Hospital Gregorio Álvarez in Chos Malal.

In addition to collecting medications, the campaign included the segregation of cardboard and plastic bottles for recycling. Cardboard was transported to the municipal recycling point in Chos Malal.