Paracetamol environmental remediation and ecotoxicology: a review

Abstract

Paracetamol, a common pain reliever, has seen a significant rise in use, particularly during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This widespread consumption has led to increased levels of paracetamol in the environment through wastewater discharge. This raises concerns about its potential impact on aquatic ecosystems. Here, we review the state-of-the-art methods for removing paracetamol from wastewater, focusing on adsorption techniques. We explore how different materials and operational conditions influence the effectiveness of this approach. We also discuss the potential of combining adsorption with oxidative methods for enhanced removal. We further assess the environmental impact by critically examining the ecotoxicological effects of paracetamol on aquatic organisms. This analysis compares established toxicity values with those observed in studies using real wastewater samples. Finally, we highlight the specific needs for further research and development of efficient and sustainable strategies to mitigate paracetamol pollution, ensuring the safety of both human and aquatic life.