Phthalates in Prescription Drugs
Author Information
Author(s): Betts Kellyn S.
Primary Institution: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
Hypothesis
Are phthalate-containing prescription medications a source of high internal exposure to phthalates?
Conclusion
Phthalate-containing medications, particularly mesalamine, are linked to significantly higher levels of phthalate metabolites in users compared to nonusers.
Supporting Evidence
- Mesalamine users had urine concentrations of DBP metabolites 50 times higher than nonusers.
- Some users of other phthalate-containing medications also had higher metabolite concentrations than nonusers.
- Phthalates can cross the placenta and may affect reproductive development.
Takeaway
Some medicines have chemicals called phthalates that can get into our bodies and might be harmful, especially for pregnant women.
Methodology
Investigators analyzed NHANES data from 1999 to 2004, comparing urine samples of users and nonusers of phthalate-containing medications.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on a small sample size of mesalamine users and did not assess all potential phthalate sources.
Participant Demographics
At least 3 pregnant women reported taking phthalate-containing medications.
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