The institute made this observation after a study on the influence of painkiller residues in surface waters. This shows that, for example, the over-the-counter painkiller diclofenac is all too common in our surface waters.
Gel on the skin
“This is because this painkiller is often spread on the skin in the form of a gel. Most of it is eliminated by showering or washing clothes,” the organization reports.
The proposed European standard for diclofenac is even exceeded in half of the places examined, the RIVM found. But other well-known painkillers are also dangerous for water. Ibuprofen and naproxen, which are also available for sale, also pose a risk to the aquatic environment.
Harmful for animals
Drug residues in water can be harmful to animals that live in and on the water, the institute warns. Therefore, drugs that are more environmentally and animal friendly should be chosen. Paracetamol and aspirin, for example, pollute water less. But, the RIVM underlines, ‘when choosing a painkiller, effectiveness and safety for the patient are the most important things’.
According to the institute, it remains to be determined how best to include the environmental impact of painkillers in the various treatment guidelines.
The wastewater treatment plant cannot adequately remove drug residues from the water, so we need to ensure that less of them end up in the water. Of course, swallowing as little as possible is a good thing, says the RIVM.
2024-01-19 10:45:45
#residues #painkillers #diclofenac #ibuprofen #surface #waters