Pharmaceuticals and micro(nano)plastics in the environment: Sorption and analytical challenges

Abstract

The co-occurrence of pharmaceutical residues and micro(nano)plastics in aquatic environments raises concerns about their potential interactions and consequent fate, transport, bioavailability, and toxicity. While numerous studies have investigated these interactions under laboratory conditions, a significant knowledge gap remains regarding their behaviour in real-world scenarios. This review addresses this gap by critically analysing recent literature on pharmaceutical sorption to micro(nano)plastics in environmental samples or under simulated natural conditions. Key findings underscore the nature of these interactions, influenced by factors such as microplastics’ type, surface area, and biofouling. However, the scarcity of field studies and persistent analytical challenges (including sampling, extraction, and detection limitations), hinder a comprehensive understanding of these processes in real scenarios. Future efforts should prioritise the development of standardised methodologies, advanced analytical techniques, and expanded field-based monitoring to comprehensively assess the environmental and human health risks associated with pharmaceutical-microplastic interactions. This knowledge is crucial for informing effective mitigation strategies and policy decisions to address the growing concern of pharmaceutical and microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems.