The plant uptake of pharmaceuticals that include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics from contaminated environment has benefits and drawbacks. These pharmaceuticals enter plants mostly through irrigation with contaminated water and application of sewage sludge as soil fertilizer. Aquatic plants withdraw these pharmaceuticals from water through their roots. Numerous studies have observed the translocation of these pharmaceuticals from the roots into the aerial tissues. Furthermore, the occurrence of the metabolites of NSAIDs in plants has been observed. This article provides an in-depth critical review of the plant uptake of NSAIDs and analgesics, their translocation, and toxic effects on plant species. In addition, the occurrence of metabolites of NSAIDs in plants and the application of constructed wetlands using plants for remediation are reviewed. Factors that affect the plant uptake and translocation of these pharmaceuticals are examined. Gaps and future research are provided to guide forthcoming investigations on important aspects that worth explorations.
Keywords: analgesics; contamination; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; plant uptake; remediation; toxic effects.