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Promoting Sustainable Prescribing-A Case Study Presenting Experiences From Two Swedish Drug and Therapeutics
Björn Ericsson1, Ulf Lindahl2, Johanna Villén3
1Gävleborg Drug and Therapeutics Committee, Gävle, Sweden.
Pharmacology Research & Perspectives
|June 21, 2026
Summary
Two Swedish Drug & Therapeutics Committees (DTCs) integrated environmental considerations into their practices, reducing pharmaceutical pollution. Their efforts included sustainable prescribing initiatives and monitoring medication sales, showing a decline in harmful drug use.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pharmaceuticals represent a growing environmental concern.
- Drug & Therapeutics Committees (DTCs) play a role in medication management and prescribing practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe how two Swedish DTCs integrated environmental considerations into their work over two decades.
- To analyze trends in the sales of specific pharmaceuticals (diclofenac and fluoroquinolones) in relation to these initiatives.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study design was employed.
- Activities promoting sustainable prescribing by DTCs in Gävleborg and Västernorrland were documented.
- Sales data for diclofenac and fluoroquinolones from 2000 to 2024 were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Both DTCs successfully integrated environmental considerations into formularies and education.
- Systemic diclofenac use peaked in 2011 and subsequently declined; topical formulations initially increased then declined.
- Fluoroquinolone sales (ciprofloxacin, norfloxacin) peaked around 2012 before decreasing.
Conclusions:
- The study demonstrates a successful model for incorporating environmental sustainability into DTC operations.
- These initiatives contribute to the broader goal of rational and responsible medication use.
- The findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders aiming to promote sustainable medicine practices.
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