The presence of pharmaceuticals and caffeine in water, as well as the methods used to eliminate them

Emerging pollutants such as medications and caffeine have been detected in diverse environmental settings, including public water supplies. This study evaluates the presence of primary medicines and caffeine in water and the effectiveness of conventional treatment methods for eliminating these compounds. Drugs from many diagnostic categories were examined, with a focus on psychotropic medications, which are prescribed and used more often globally. The water delivery system's various phases were also examined. Even if the examined pollutants are eliminated by conventional treatment, their presence can still be found in residues or by-products left over from the treatment process. This suggests that preventative measures are necessary to preserve the water sources. •Pharmaceuticals and caffeine are found in various water matrices across the planet.•Conventional water treatment systems may not completely remove pharmaceuticals.•Pharmaceutical residues in water can pose a risk to exposed organisms and health.