Drug residues found in Qld drinking water

Queensland scientists have warned that drug residues from medicines are finding their way into drinking water.

James Cook University's Dr Michael Oelgemoeller said that newer drugs "now persist longer and in more powerful concentrations," in waterways.

Dr Oelgemoeller said the increase in the use of anti-depressants in Far North Queensland after Cyclone Yasi in 2011 could have had a negative impact on both humans and the Great Barrier Reef.

He said studies have shown "serious concerns" regarding the effects of drug residues on humans and animals and there was evidence that even the most modern water treatment systems were unable to completely remove residues.

That raised the threat to the Great Barrier Reef, the aquaculture industry and public health, he said.

Dr Oelgemoeller is part of a team investigating new methods of removing the residues from water supplies.

The method the team is trialling involves using UV light, natural sunlight and natural minerals to, hopefully, capture and destroy pharmaceutical leftovers.