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Diclofenac, a drug that is harmful to the environment, has been measured at levels above the limit values in the waterways of 18 towns in the country. Swedish Water is now urging pharmacies and the grocery trade to stop selling over-the-counter drugs.
Diclofenac is available in several types of pain reliever and anti-inflammatory gels and sprays and is sold over the counter under a dozen brand names, including Voltaren, Eeze, and Diclofenac Orifarm.
The substance is harmful in aquatic environments and can, among other things, affect the kidneys of fish. A single tube of diclofenac is sufficient to exceed the limit value of the so-called good ecological status of coastal waters in 232 basins of 25 meters. Last year, 4.4 tons were sold according to statistics from the electronic health authority. Over-the-counter gel accounted for about half of sales.
In a new report, Svenskt Vatten focuses on problems with drug residues that damage our waters.
“The situation is dire for our common waters and now is the time to make much smarter use of diclofenac,” says Anders Finnson, an environmental expert at Svenskt Vatten, in a press release.
Presence of diclofenac residues it is greater than what has been previously demonstrated by measurements. Svenskt Vatten urges pharmacies and the grocery trade to stop selling the only OTC drug that contains special contaminants: diclofenac.
