Prozac Threatens Freshwater Mussels

The American Chemical Society recently revealed that traces of Prozac found in rivers may be contributing to the widespread disappearance of freshwater mussels. In this study, freshwater mussels were directly exposed to serotonin in one group, and in another to fluoxetine — the active ingredient in Prozac. In both cases, mussels prematurely released larvae within 48 hours. Simulating concentrations of Prozac previously found in waterways, the test pools contained .3 to 3,000 micrograms per liter of water. This level of contamination calls for both an improved filtration system for waterways, and an examination of the sheer quantity of pharmaceutical drugs produced and prescribed.

Currently, 28 million Americans (1 in 10) take selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), and over 60 million prescriptions have been written. Prozac is part of this family of drugs, which increase neural absorption of serotonin, a vital neurotransmitter. SSRIs are commonly prescribed for compulsive disorder, panic disorder, eating disorders, obesity, and depression. Both the chronic nature of these conditions, as well as the mechanism by which SSRIs produce their effect, contribute to long-term use of these types of medications. The heavy reliance on pharmaceutical drugs for psychological medical conditions significantly contributes to the toxicity of our ecosystem, and increases potential threat to human health.

Of the nearly 300 species of freshwater mussels found in North America, 70% are either extinct or are nearing extinction due to habitat modifications, including chemical pollution. Vital for a healthy aquatic ecosystem, freshwater mussels filter water in their daily quest for nutrition, and other animals in the ecosystem that rely on mussels as a reliable food source. The survival of freshwater mussels heavily depends on the reduction of chemical pollution, which includes decreasing the rate of pharmaceutical drug prescriptions and an adherence to best waste management practices for medication disposal. By taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of the health care industry, health professionals can create a healthier world for all.

The Teleosis Institute’s Green Health Care Program is one that aims to bridge the gap between our actions as health providers and the direct impact we can have on the environment – such as reducing the sheer volume of chemicals and medications that pollute our waterways. As human health is inextricably linked to the health of the environment, the Teleosis Institute’s Green Health Care Program works with practitioners to understand and choose the least harmful therapies first. The decision to integrate Ecologically Sustainable Medicines reflects a movement away from over-prescription, toward a treatment plan that addresses pharmaceutical needs, as well as possible lifestyle changes and the integration of less toxic interventions. When providers choose to become Environmental Health Advocates, they make the decision to care for the health of their clients and the environment.

Source: American Chemical Society at www.acs.org