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The impacts of carbamazepine (CBZ) on aquatic organisms are yet not well investigated. The present study aimed to better understand the chronic effects of environmentally relevant concentrations of CBZ. The experiment was performed by exposing the filter feeding clam Ruditapes philippinarum to 0.00, 0.03, 0.30, 3.00 and 9.00 μg/L, during 28 days. To assess the chronic toxicity of the drug a battery of biomarkers related with health status and oxidative stress was applied. In order to quantify CBZ in the clam's tissues and in water samples ELISA was used.

The present study showed three types of responses on the clams after a chronic exposure to CBZ. For control condition and the lower concentrations (0.03 and 0.30 μg/L) a “similar” metabolic state was observed and the most efficient antioxidant status leading to the elimination of reactive oxygen species formed during the metabolism of CBZ. The concentration …