Ecotoxicological aspects related to the presence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment
Lúcia H M L M Santos1, A N Araújo, Adriano Fachini
1REQUIMTE, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto - Rua Anibal Cunha, 164, 4050-047 Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
Pharmaceuticals are biologically active and persistent substances which have been recognized as a continuing threat to environmental stability. Chronic ecotoxicity data as well as information on the current distribution levels in different environmental compartments continue to be sparse and are focused on those therapeutic classes that are more frequently prescribed and consumed. Nevertheless, they indicate the negative impact that these chemical contaminants may have on living organisms, ecosystems and ultimately, public health. This article reviews the different contamination sources as well as fate and both acute and chronic effects on non-target organisms. An extensive review of existing data in the form of tables, encompassing many therapeutic classes is presented.
Related Concept Videos
Effects of Chemicals: Overview
Types of Toxins
Air pollutants, primarily gases, pose significant threats to respiratory health, leading to conditions like hypoxia, lung cancer, and in extreme cases, death.
Environmental pollutants like...
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Toxicity Testing in Animals
Pharmaceutical Alternatives: Excipients and Impurities-Related Therapeutic Nonequivalence
Drug Toxicity: Dose-Dependent Reactions


