Dear Colleagues,

Antibiotic residues as well as antibiotic resistant bacteria and their resistance genes have been detected in the environment, and the evidence of this has grown, as recognized by the European Commission’s revised Action Plan (2017) against the rising threats from antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, it is essential to understand the adverse effects of antibiotic use on environment, which remains undressed. In this context, an “Ecopharmacovigilance System for Antibiotics” underlines practical measures taken after product post-authorization, and the assessment should be built into a monitoring system on a prioritized basis. Contrasting other pharmacotherapeutic groups, safety signals could be detected and managed by the consumption of antibiotics. Thus, beyond occurrence in the environment, it is important to detect the global/regional antibioresistance or emergence of resistance genes in the environment. Accordingly, an integrated ecopharmacovigilance/pharmacovigilance may be crucial for the success of the One Health approach. Data monitoring from several sources, including hospitals, wastewater treatment plants, farms, and households, is relevant to achieve the stated goals. Effective management includes communication and minimization of risk, encompassing, among others, health professionals.

The aim of this Special Issue entitled “Ecopharmacovigilance of Antibiotics—An Essential Tool” is to highlight research studies addressing and updating data monitoring, including regulatory issues, towards the rational use of antibiotics.

Dr. Leonor Meisel
Prof. Anabela Almeida
Guest Editors

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• Ecopharmacovigilance
• One Health approach
• Environmental antibiotic residues
• Antibiotic resistance
• Antibiotic consumption
• Risk communication
• Risk minimization
• Rational use of antibiotics