Environmental Impact of Pharmaceuticals: Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
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- Category: Vol. 84, December 2016
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Environmental Impact of Pharmaceuticals: Challenges and Mitigation Strategies
Abstract
Aim: This review evaluates upstream mitigation strategies to reduce pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic environments, fo-cusing on their effectiveness and implications for public health and ecological sustainability. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conduct-ed to identify and synthesize six proposed upstream strategies: green pharmaceuticals, eco-directed sustainable prescribing, urine-separating toilets, take-back programs, and trash disposal of unused medications. Results: The findings indicate that while traditional waste-water treatment methods fail to adequately remove pharma-
ceuticals, innovative strategies such as green drug design and eco-directed prescribing can minimize environmental impact. Take-back programs effectively prevent drugs from entering aquatic systems, yet they face challenges in public participa-tion and regulation. Urine-separating toilets offer a promising avenue for targeted treatment of pharmaceutical-rich waste, al-though they may not capture all contaminants. Conclusion: Implementing a multifaceted approach com-bining these upstream strategies can significantly mitigate pharmaceutical pollution, safeguarding both ecological integ-
rity and human health. Increased awareness and regulatory frameworks will be crucial for effective implementation.