The role of membrane technology in addressing pharmaceutical pollution in water

•Data on the removal of PhACs using full-scale membrane systems are limited.•The properties of PhACs can influence the efficiency of MSP.•Challenges and prospects of MSP in water treatment are highlighted.•An overview of the removal of pharmaceuticals by MSP is provided.•Modified membranes enhance the performance in PhACs removal. This article discusses the potential risks of pharmaceutical active compounds (PhACs) as emerging water contaminants and their impact on distribution networks, as traditional treatment processes are often ineffective in removing them. The article discusses the harmful effects of PhACs on water resources. It highlights the main chemical properties of these drugs and how they affect membrane separation processes (MSP), which are effective methods for dealing with these compounds. The article also explores recent studies on applying MSP on a large scale. Finally, it offers insights into the future perspectives of membrane technology in water and wastewater treatment, intending to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in addressing PhACs contamination in water systems. [Display omitted]