pharmaceutical

To ensure the long-term protection of ecosystems such as water bodies and soils, and for preventive health protection, the entry of pharmaceuticals into the environment must be sustainably reduced throughout the entire lifecycle of medicinal products.

The assessment of the environmental impact of human and veterinary medicinal products has been an integral part of the authorisation process for many years. In Germany, this has been a legal requirement since 1998. The UBA is responsible for conducting the environmental risk assessment.

By integrating environmental aspects into guideline-based counselling, pharmacy professionals can play a crucial role in reducing the entry of pharmaceutical substances into the environment. Additionally, they can contribute by conducting medication reviews, engaging in collaboration with medical professionals, and providing information on the responsible disposal of leftover medicines.

Residues of pharmaceuticals contaminate water bodies and soils worldwide. They have also been detected in groundwater and, in some cases, even in drinking water. Human pharmaceuticals enter wastewater primarily through human excretion and then pass through sewage treatment plants into water bodies. Due to increasing pharmaceutical consumption, environmental pollution is expected to rise.

To support awareness efforts on the environmental impact of pharmaceuticals, the UBA has developed a range of informational materials, some of which are available in multiple languages. These include flyers, posters, postcards, and a birthday calendar, as well as free texts and images that can be used in various media channels.

Pharmaceutical substances in the environment are a growing concern. The UBA provides freely accessible, scientifically reviewed teaching materials for medical and pharmaceutical educators. With a basic slide set and accompanying texts, this topic can be taught in a comprehensive and practice-oriented manner, even within tight curricula.

By integrating environmentally conscious approaches into prescribing practices, doctors can actively help reduce the entry of pharmaceuticals into the environment while ensuring high-quality patient care.