Introduction: Recently, residual pharmaceuticals have been generally recognized as relevant sources of aquatic environmental pollutants. However, the toxicological effects of these contaminants have not been adequately researched. In this study, the chronic toxic effect of Diclofenac (DCF) on the hematological parameters of Cyprinus carpio was investigated. DCF is one of the most commonly used Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), which is commonly present in surface and groundwater.
Materal & Methods: In the present investigation, the most commonly used pharmaceutical drug, DCF, was exposed to Cyprinus carpio in different concentrations (1.25 mg/l, 2.5 mg/l, and 5 mg/l) under the statistical bioassay method to estimate its toxicological effects for a period of 21 days. Over a 21-day experimental period, the effects of diclofenac on the fish were investigated by
weekly hematological observations.
Results: In sublethal treatment, a significant decrease in the concentrations of erythrocyte (RBC), leukocyte (WBC), Hemoglobin (Hb), Hematocrit (HCT), and Mean Cellular Hemoglobin (MCH) levels were observed throughout the study period when compared to the corresponding variables of the control group. The Mean Cellular Volume (MCV) and the Mean Cellular Hemoglobin (MCH) levels were constantly increased in this study. On the other hand, a mixed trend was noticed in the parameters that were effectively employed alongside other biochemical factors as biomarkers in the monitoring of DCF toxicity in aquatic organisms. More detailed studies on these specific biomarkers are needed, however, to assess the impacts of human pharmaceutical drugs in the field of pharmacotoxicology and aquatic toxicology.
Conclusion: These results suggest that hematological parameters could be used as potential biomarkers for monitoring the residual pharmaceuticals present in the aquatic environment.