Abstract:
Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognized as emerging contaminants in clinical
environments, suggesting novel exposure routes beyond dietary and inhalation routes. This study
provides the first systematic investigation of MP contamination of selected intravenous (IV) fluids
and oral liquid medications in Sri Lanka. Eleven medicinal liquids (four IV fluids and seven oral
preparations) were collected from government and private healthcare facilities based on their
frequency of usage and analyzed under strict quality control conditions in a laminar hood facility.
Microplastics were extracted by vacuum filtration through 0.45 μm cellulose nitrate filters and
identified by stereomicroscopy and hot needle testing. All samples contained MPs, with normal
saline IV fluids showing a mean concentration of 15.30 ± 3.28 MPs per 100 mL and oral liquids
69.98 ± 43.35 MPs per 100 mL. Fragments and fibres were the dominant morphologies, consistent
with global reports linking MPs to packaging and handling. These findings highlight a critical gap
in pharmaceutical quality control, particularly considering the direct systemic exposure risk posed
by IV infusions. Establishing monitoring systems, enhancing packaging standards, and formulating
regulatory frameworks are urgently needed to mitigate MP associated in healthcare products as
emerging contaminants, posing direct threats on human.
