Abstract

Assessing the ecological impact of psychoactive drugs in water systems is crucial due to their potential to disrupt aquatic ecosystems. These substances, originating from various sources including pharmaceuticals, recreational drugs, and personal care products, can enter water bodies through sewage effluents, runoff, and improper disposal. Once in the aquatic environment, psychoactive drugs may persist, undergo transformation, or accumulate in organisms, leading to adverse effects on aquatic biota and ecosystem functioning. This review explores the current state of knowledge regarding the occurrence, fate, and effects of psychoactive drugs in water systems, highlighting the need for comprehensive risk assessment and management strategies to safeguard aquatic ecosystems and human health.