In this review, research on the use of microalgae as an option for bioremediation purposes of pharmaceutical compounds is reported and discussed thoroughly. Pharmaceuticals have been detected in water bodies around the world, attracting attention towards the increasing potential risks to humans and aquatic biota. Unfortunately, pharmaceuticals have no regulatory standards for safe disposal in many countries. Despite the advances in new analytical techniques, the current wastewater treatment facilities in many countries are ineffective to remove the whole presence of pharmaceutical compounds and their metabolites. Though new methods are substantially effective, removal rates of drugs from wastewater make the cost-effectiveness ratio a not viable option. Therefore, the necessity for investigating and developing more adequate removal treatments with a higher efficiency rate and at a lower cost is mandatory. The present review highlights the algae-based removal strategies for bioremediation purposes, considering their pathway as well as the removal rate and efficiency of the microalgae species used in assays. We have critically reviewed both application of living and non-living microalgae biomass for bioremediation purposes considering the most commonly used microalgae species. In addition, the use of modified and immobilized microalgae biomass for the removal of pharmaceutical compounds from water was discussed. Furthermore, research considering various microalgal species and their potential use to detoxify organic and inorganic toxic compounds were well evaluated in the review. Further research is required to exploit the potential use of microalgae species as an option for the bioremediation of pharmaceuticals in water.

Center and Development of the Mezquital Valley Hidalgo México

Doctorado en Nanociencias Y Nanotecnología Centro de Investigación Y de Estudios Avanzados Instituto Politécnico Nacional Av Instituto Politécnico Nacional C P 07360 Ciudad de Mexico México

Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacology Center for Research in Biology of Reproduction Medicine Department Institute of Health Sciences Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo Calle Dr Eliseo Ramírez Ulloa No 400 Col Doctores Pachuca Hidalgo México

Universidad Tecnológica de La Zona Metropolitana del Valle de México Blvd Miguel Hidalgo Y Costilla 5 Los Heroes C P 43816 Tizayuca Hidalgo México

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