Prescribing for shrimps

11th August 2012 by Judith Harvey

Prescribing for shrimps

Shrimps kept in sea water laced with the level of fluoxetine currently found in their natural habitat change their behaviour. Instead of seeking cover from predators under rocks, they swim towards light. So human drugs may trigger behaviour changes which could unbalance the ecosystem.

What happens to all the medication we prescribe? It’s a challenge to find out.

As we know, a lot isn’t ever taken. In one survey, only 18% of people said they completed courses of antibiotics. Unused pharmaceuticals should be returned to a pharmacy. They are then incinerated. In hospital, end of problem. But in the community, probably only 25% of unused prescriptions find their way back to a pharmacist. People usually throw unwanted medication into the household waste or flush it down the toilet.

Read more

No credit card details needed – it takes two minutes.

Join free trial

Login

Already a member? Login to view this content.

Login

"I have found LocumDeck to be the most helpful and invaluable resource for keeping bookings and accounts. I want to thank you for the wonderful service you provide. Many thanks once again for all the NASGP provides, and particularly for use of the excellent resource LocumDeck has proved to be – something I have recommended to many colleagues who have taken a step to locum work."

Dr Ruth Snowball, GP, Birmingham

Dr Ruth Snowball, GP, Birmingham

See the full list of features within our NASGP membership plans

Membership