We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Reactive oxygen species drive aging-associated microplastic release in diverse infusion ingredients
Summary
Researchers discovered that IV fluid bags release hundreds to thousands of microplastic particles into the solution, with the amount depending on what medication is mixed in. Certain drugs generate more reactive oxygen species (harmful molecules) that break down the plastic bag material faster, releasing more particles. This finding is important because IV fluids deliver microplastics directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the body's natural barriers.
Exposure routes and transport of microplastics (MPs) from the environment into the human bodies deserve considerable attention. Intravenous injection has been reported as a direct MP-intrusion pathway. However, it is unclear whether or how the infusion fluid composition influences polymer degradation and MP release. Here, we determined that the concentrations of MPs shed from infusion bags ranged from 522 to 5455 particles/L. The storage period, mechanical shaking, and storage temperature all contributed to MP release to some extent; however, the infusion fluid composition affected the formation of MPs more than any other factor. Infusion fluids containing moxifloxacin hydrochloride, etimicin sulfate, and sodium bicarbonate ringer's solution generated more reactive oxygen species than those containing sodium chloride, grape sugar, and glucose and sodium chloride. Specifically, the generation of reactive oxygen species (hydroxyl radicals, carbonate radicals, and single oxygen) facilitated oxygen-containing functional group formation and breaking of carbon chains on the surface of the polypropylene plastic, which increased aging and fragmentation. Overall, this study provides knowledge of the mechanisms underlying MP release from infusion bags during storage and transportation. This offers insight for optimizing the use and handling of infusion bags in medical settings to minimize contamination.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Hidden hazards: microplastics in intravenous admixtures and their path into the body
This study investigated microplastic contamination in intravenous (IV) fluid bags used in hospitals, finding that prolonged storage in plastic containers leads to microplastic particles leaching into the solution. This means patients receiving IV treatments may be exposed to microplastics that enter the bloodstream directly, bypassing the body's natural barriers. The findings highlight an overlooked route of microplastic exposure in medical settings that needs further investigation.
Factors affecting micro(nano)plastic release during intravenous therapy: Direct blood exposure.
This study systematically evaluated factors affecting micro(nano)plastic (MNP) release from medical infusion products during intravenous therapy. Results indicated that MNPs are released into IV fluid at measurable levels, potentially delivering plastic particles directly into the bloodstream of patients.
Unraveling micro/nanoplastics and phthalates in infusion solutions: A novel integrated approach for quantification and cardiovascular cytotoxicity evaluation
Researchers developed a new method to detect and measure micro- and nanoplastics in medical infusion solutions (IV bags) and found significant contamination in commonly used glucose and saline fluids. Nanoplastics dominated the contamination, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene detected alongside phthalate chemicals that showed a strong correlation with plastic particle levels. The study suggests that IV therapy may be an overlooked route of direct plastic particle exposure into the bloodstream, and that combined exposure to nanoplastics and phthalates can have synergistic toxic effects on cardiovascular cells.
Health Risks from Microplastics in Intravenous Infusions: Evidence from Italy, Spain, and Ecuador
Researchers analyzed intravenous (IV) fluid bags and bottles from Italy, Spain, and Ecuador and found microplastics in nearly all samples, with plastic bags containing up to 299 particles per liter. This is concerning because IV fluids deliver microplastics directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the body's natural barriers, and some brands showed concentrations high enough to pose clinical risk.
Micro(nano)plastics (< 4 μm): An important but ignored concern during intravenous infusion
Researchers found that common IV bags, tubes, and syringes release thousands of tiny plastic particles directly into the bloodstream during routine medical treatments. The particles, smaller than 4 micrometers, included types like PVC and polypropylene and were found in nearly all tested infusion products. This is a significant finding because it identifies a previously overlooked source of microplastic exposure that bypasses the body's natural barriers entirely.