Which of the following is a possible consequence of not properly disposing of expired medications?

Not properly disposing of expired medications can lead to environmental pollution, which is a significant consequence. Medications that are not disposed of correctly may end up in landfills or wastewater systems, where they can leach into soil and water sources, harming aquatic life and potentially contaminating drinking water. This pollution can disrupt ecosystems and pose health risks to humans and wildlife alike.

On the other hand, while increased healthcare costs can indeed arise from various healthcare inefficiencies or mismanagement, that does not directly stem from improper disposal of expired medications. Better medication management is not a likely outcome of improper disposal; instead, it generally results from organized practices surrounding medication usage and handling. Improved drug efficacy is also not relevant here, as the proper disposal of expired medications is more about safety and environmental health rather than enhancing the effectiveness of medications. Hence, the focus primarily falls on the potential for environmental damage when medications are not disposed of appropriately.