Psychotropic pharmaceuticals in aquatic environments: Occurrence and analytical challenges

Area of Science:

• Environmental Chemistry
• Ecotoxicology
• Pharmaceutical Science

Background:

• Psychotropic pharmaceuticals are frequently detected in aquatic ecosystems.
• Concerns exist regarding their persistence, bioactivity, and potential for trophic transfer.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the environmental presence of psychotropic compounds.
• To identify frequently studied substances, geographic patterns, and transformation products (TPs).
• To analyze current detection methodologies and research trends.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of significant studies on psychotropic compounds in the environment.
• Analysis of reported environmental concentrations in water, sediment, and biota.
• Examination of analytical techniques, primarily solid-phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• Scientometric overview of research trends and monitoring gaps.

Main Results:

• Psychotropic compounds and their TPs are detected in surface waters, wastewater, and sediments at ng/L to μg/L concentrations.
• Antidepressants (fluoxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine) and anxiolytics (diazepam, alprazolam, oxazepam) are commonly reported.
• TPs like O-desmethylvenlafaxine and norfluoxetine can exceed parent compound levels, indicating persistence.
• Environmental concentrations frequently surpass 1000 ng/L in inadequately treated effluents.

Conclusions:

• Harmonized regulations are needed for psychotropic pharmaceuticals in the environment.
• Improved detection and monitoring of TPs are crucial.
• Integrated environmental strategies are required to mitigate risks associated with these persistent pollutants.