Pharmaceuticals in the marine environment: a review

Abstract

Despite the increasing presence of pharmaceuticals in marine environments and their potential negative impacts, little research has been reported on the level and occurrence of these contaminants in the marine ecosystem. This review provides information on the occurrence (level–concentration) of pharmaceuticals in marine environments including seawater, sediments, and organisms within and (or) around this ecosystem. Also, the classification, sources, metabolism, and fate of these contaminants in the marine environment were discussed to identify knowledge gaps. We showed that antibiotics are the most commonly investigated and detected drugs in marine environments. In addition, this review suggested that focused case studies should be a priority for future research and highlighted the need for future assessments of the potential risks of pharmaceuticals to marine species. We also suggested that it is necessary to monitor the level of the most frequent and widespread pharmaceuticals like antibiotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in sewage and marine outfalls. Finally, we concluded that there is a need for the development of effective treatment methods for the removal of these pollutants from wastewater before their discharge into the receiving marine environment or the main drinking water networks.