Pharmaceutical compounds show a crucial role in improving the well-being of several life forms, but their improper disposal were hidden hazards to nature, impacting the health of ecosystems. Inappropriate clearance of pharmaceutical waste from industries, along with medical waste from hospitals and research facilities, leads to water pollution. Conventional methods often fail to completely degrade these pharmaceutical residues. Thus, there is an urgent need to explore advanced techniques for the effective removal of these pollutants from water sources. This study centers on application of sulfate radicals (SO4•−) in advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) to degrade pharmaceuticals which is present in wastewater. Sulfate radicals exhibit superior oxidation potential compared to hydroxyl radicals (•OH). The research investigates into the impact of several elements such as the concentration of persulfate, pH, and catalyst dosage on the efficacy of sulfate radical-based AOP. Additionally, it aims to decode the mechanism underlying pollutant degradation. By enhancing our comprehension of results and mechanisms, alongside refining process parameters, sulfate radicals are poised to make significant contributions toward preserving water quality and safeguarding human health and the environment.