PHARMACOLOGICAL CONTAMINANTS IN AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS

This study emphasises the need for ecological risk profiles based on geographic and pharmaceutical class criteria. Establishing these profiles is vital for identifying contamination sources, assessing levels, and implementing strategies to neutralise negative ecosystem impacts. Failure to do so may transform therapeutic agents into catalysts for new pathologies with potentially catastrophic consequences. Risks are amplified as the life cycle of pharmaceuticals impacting "non-target" organisms generates biologically active metabolites with similar ecosystem risks. This growing concern, spurred by pharmaceutical industry advancements, requires attention from researchers studying aquatic ecosystem stability. Authored by medical practitioners, this article serves as a cautionary message to the medical community disputing polypharmacy and the looming global iatrogenic threat to pharmacological contaminants. Consequently, the training of future healthcare professionals must incorporate education on pharmacological contaminants as an integral component of continuous medical education. Failure to do so may leave future doctors grappling with a complex pathology that is difficult to estimate and undoubtedly challenging to treat. This study offers both theoretical and didactic perspectives, proving valuable for clinical practice. Practitioners must proactively inform patients during daily practice to mitigate polypharmacy and prevent health issues, safeguarding against harmful effects.