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ECHA Allows Novartis to Use Diglyme After 2017 Ban

September 15, 2016

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has given Novartis authorization to use the toxic chemical diglyme after its scheduled ban in 2017.

Novartis uses diglyme in the production of indacaterol, which is an active ingredient in drugs used to treat lung diseases. The ban will take effect in the EU in August 2017.

Diglyme is a chemical that is considered toxic for human reproduction. Between 24 and 40 workers are exposed to the chemical for a few weeks each year at Novartis’ plant in Ireland, but according to the company, exposure is minimized through contained systems and is within safe limits.

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