IV drugs may contain harmful microplastics, researchers warn

A new study warns that drugs given to hospital patients through IV drips may contain microplastics. Researchers found that IV saline bags could have around 7,500 microplastic particles, which could increase to over 52,000 during surgeries. The microplastics are tiny fragments from degrading plastic, and they have been detected in various human organs and breast milk. The study suggests that these particles could enter the bloodstream during IV treatments. Experts note that the amount of microplastics in IV bags is lower than in many everyday products, like plastic water bottles. They recommend keeping IV bags away from light and heat to reduce microplastic shedding and suggest future filters for IV drips.