Pharmaceuticals and Illicit Drugs in Environmental Waters: A Systematic Review and Quantitative Analysis of Global
Francisco D A Coelho1, Ruth Morgan2, Luiza C Campos3
1Department of Security and Crime Science, University College London, 35 Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9EZ, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs are environmental contaminants of concern due to their persistence and health impacts. Whilst spatial and temporal patterns have been extensively studied, seasonal variations remain under-explored globally. This review examined studies across six continents, synthesising wastewater and surface water data to identify seasonal patterns. Rather than a uniform global trend, seasonal peaks are continent- and matrix-specific. In Europe, effluent concentrations were highest in summer, whereas in influent higher concentrations were more frequently observed in winter. Asia exhibited elevated autumn concentrations in influent and effluent wastewaters, while surface water loads peaked in winter. North America influent concentrations were highest in summer. Africa showed higher summer wastewater loads and winter peaks in surface waters. Data from Oceania and South America was comparatively limited. Seasonal differences may reflect interacting climatic and hydrological conditions, population dynamics, environmental degradation, and wastewater treatment highlighting the need for regionally and seasonally tailored monitoring strategies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drug Control Governance: Regulatory Bodies and Their Impact
Drug Regulation
Pharmaceutical Poisoning: Potential Scenarios
Pharmacovigilance
This process, termed pharmacovigilance, aims to detect, evaluate, and minimize harmful effects related to medication use. The data collection for pharmacovigilance depends on spontaneous reporting systems, where healthcare professionals or patients voluntarily report suspected ADRs.
In some cases, there...
Drug Concentrations: Measurements
Plasma —...
Drug Classes and Categories


