The effects of environmental levels of atorvastatin on the muscle physiology of largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides)

Hundreds of pharmaceuticals are regularly released into waterways, largely through wastewater. While the concentrations of most of these drugs are still far below the levels of concern for human health, the effects of these compounds at these levels on the development and physiology of aquatic organisms is beginning to be explored. Atorvastatin, commonly known by the brand name Lipitor, is one of the most prescribed drugs in the United States and, therefore, one of great concern to aquatic toxicologists. Since this cholesterol-lowering statin has reportedly led to myopathies in humans, we concluded that an investigation of muscle disfunction was warranted in aquatic organisms. We raised largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, in aquaria containing two concentrations of atorvastatin that represent the environmental levels in wastewater. After exposure, fish raised in the higher concentrations of the drug had reduced muscle twitch force and altered contraction timing. In addition, the relationship between contraction force to electromyography peak readings no longer fit a linear model in treated fish. Our results indicate that even at the lower end of concentrations regularly found in waterways, aquatic organisms such as fish may be compromised physiologically. Therefore, it will be important to note rising levels of pharmaceuticals in wastewater well before reaching levels detrimental to humans.