Citalopram Removal From Water

Citalopram, a commonly prescribed antidepressant medication, has gained attention due to its presence in water sources.

It enters the environment through human and animal excretion and also dumping of unused products. It therefore becomes crucial to explore effective methods for citalopram removal from water.

This article aims to provide insights into the uses of citalopram. It also examines its degradation in water and water purification techniques for removing citalopram. These techniques include the efficacy of ‘legacy’ methods like granular activated carbon (GAC) and adsorption.

We also compare water purification techniques for removing citalopram using different processes, including the innovative Nyex Rosalox™ system from Arvia Technologies.

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Citalopram removal from water

The removal of Citalopram from water can be a challenging task as conventional treatment methods may not always be effective. Although, there are methods that have been proven to remove Citalopram from water such as our Nyex Rosalox system which combines adsorption and oxidation in a single step process.

Our Nyex technology successfully removed up to 96% of citalopram from municipal wastewater – from 0.28 µg/L to 0.01 µg/L.

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Citalopram: What is it used for?

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat depression and anxiety disorders in humans. It helps restore the balance of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. It does this by improving mood and overall mental well-being.

Citalopram also finds application in veterinary medicine, particularly for the treatment of anxiety-related disorders in animals.

Its effectiveness and widespread use contribute to its presence in water bodies. SSRI removal from water is therefore a pressing concern.

Citalopram Degradation in Water

Citalopram degrades slowly in water, posing a challenge for its removal from aquatic environments.

Studies indicate that citalopram has a half-life ranging from a few weeks to several months. This depends on environmental factors such as temperature, pH, and light exposure.

Its slow degradation necessitates the adoption of efficient citalopram water treatment to minimize its impact on water quality.
When present in aquatic environments, citalopram can potentially cause damage to the ecosystem.

As an antidepressant, it can alter the behaviour and physiology of aquatic organisms. Studies have shown that citalopram can affect fish and other aquatic species by interfering with their feeding, reproduction, and overall survival.

Its slow degradation rate increases the chance of long-term exposure and accumulation. This increases the potential for negative effects on aquatic environments.

How to Remove Citalopram from Water:

When it comes to effective methods to remove pharmaceuticals from water, the Nyex Rosalox™ system developed by Arvia Technologies offers a unique and innovative solution.

The system employs advanced adsorption technology, combining Nyex, its unique adsorbent media and a low-energy, chemical-free electrochemical oxidation process.

This combination allows for the removal of citalopram and other organic contaminants down to trace levels, ensuring cleaner water output. In tests, the Nyex Rosalox™ system has shown excellent results in removing citalopram from wastewater. It offers a sustainable solution for large-scale water treatment facilities.

Rhys Davies

Wastewater Treatment Consultant

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Citalopram removal methods

Various additional methods have been used to remove citalopram from water, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

In selecting a removal method, factors such as effectiveness, cost, scalability, and site-specific requirements need to be considered. Additionally, it is important to assess the potential generation of hazardous byproducts and the overall environmental impact of the chosen method.

1

Granular Activated Carbon (GAC.) Activated carbon filtration for citalopram removal, effectively adsorbs molecules onto its surface, preventing their presence in treated water. The advantage of GAC is its high adsorption capacity and versatility in removing various organic contaminants. However, GAC may require regular replacement or regeneration, leading to operational costs and potential waste disposal concerns.

2

Adsorption using Alternative Adsorbents. Apart from GAC, alternative adsorbents such as activated carbon fibres, zeolites, and biochar have shown some promise in adsorbing citalopram molecules. These adsorbents offer a range of surface properties and adsorption capacities. However, their effectiveness may vary depending on factors like contact time, pH, and co-existing substances in water.

3

Chemical Degradation. These methods involve advanced oxidation processes for eliminating citalopram, breaking them down into less harmful compounds. These methods can be effective. However, they often require additional hazardous chemicals and energy input. This leads to increased operational costs and the potential formation of harmful byproducts.

4

Biological Treatment. Biological treatment utilizes micro-organisms to metabolize and degrade citalopram. This method can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, it may require longer treatment times and careful optimization to ensure efficient removal.

5

Advanced Technologies. Innovative technologies like the Nyex Rosalox™ system developed by Arvia Technologies combine adsorption media and electrochemical oxidation of citalopram to effectively remove it. These technologies offer high removal efficiencies and no additional reliance on ‘tip-in’ chemicals.

Does GAC Remove Citalopram?

Granular activated carbon (GAC) has demonstrated its effectiveness in removing citalopram from water. It efficiently adsorbs citalopram molecules onto its surface, preventing them from being present in the treated water.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. GAC may also remove other organic compounds present in water, leading to potential competition for adsorption sites.

Additionally, the capacity of GAC to remove citalopram will diminish over time, requiring regular replacement or regeneration. Potentially this could mean processes being taken off-line to accomplish this.

For our take on why we feel GAC is an environmentally unfriendly method of water treatment, see this article.

Adsorption of Citalopram in Water:

Adsorption is a widely employed method for citalopram removal from water. Apart from GAC, alternative adsorbents such as activated carbon fibres, zeolites, and biochar show promise in effectively adsorbing citalopram.

The adsorption process is similar to GAC techniques. It involves attaching citalopram to the surface of the adsorbent material. This reduces its concentration in water.

The effectiveness of adsorption for removal of citalopram from drinking water can be affected by various factors. These include contact time, pH, and the presence of other substances in the water.

Citalopram water treatment

Citalopram must be removed from water sources to protect human and environmental health. Effective removal methods are necessary to maintain water quality and minimize potential risks.

In selecting a removal method, factors such as effectiveness, cost, scalability, and site-specific requirements need to be considered. Additionally, it is important to assess the potential generation of hazardous byproducts and the overall environmental impact of the chosen method.

Research and implementation of removal techniques must continue. This is essential for protecting our water resources and the health of humans and wildlife.

For more information on the innovative range of Nyex water treatments, contact Avia today.

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Citalopram is an antidepressant which forms part of a group of substances known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram is used to treat major depressive disorders and panic attacks. Citalopram removal from water: We removed 96% of citalopram from municipal wastewater – from 0.28 µg/L to 0.01 µg/L.