Pharmaceuticals are a growing concern in the world of water pollution, and they often get overlooked. When people take medication, a portion can be excreted and end up in wastewater systems. Flushing unused drugs down the toilet doesn’t help either—it leads to these substances entering rivers and lakes. Once there, they can disrupt aquatic ecosystems and even affect fish and wildlife. Some studies have found fish with altered behavior and reproduction due to exposure to these chemicals. Plus, there’s the risk of these substances getting into our drinking water. Tackling this issue involves better disposal practices, like drug take-back programs that allow people to return unused medications safely. By spreading awareness about the impact of pharmaceuticals on water quality, we can help keep our water clean and protect both our health and the environment. Every effort counts!