Swimmers face AOC sanction over drugs

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Swimmers who used prescription drugs at the London Olympics face sanctions from the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC).

The abuse of prescription drugs has been cited in a review into Australian swimming's poor performance at last year's London Olympics.

There have been allegations some swimmers devised an initiation ritual involving taking the prescription sleeping pill Stilnox on a bonding night.

Just before the Games, the AOC banned athletes from using prescription sedatives during the Games.

Swimming's governing body, Swimming Australia Limited (SAL), have launched an investigation into the drugs claims, with AOC president John Coates awaiting the results.

'SAL has indicated they will investigate the possible misuse of prescription drugs including Stilnox by members of the swim team,' Coates said in a statement on Tuesday.

'The use of those drugs being a breach of (Australian) team policy.

'If the claims are substantiated and the individuals involved are identified, the AOC will consider their conduct ... and consider sanctions.'

Four-time Olympic gold medallist Libby Trickett on Tuesday agreed with the findings of an independent review that a 'toxic' team culture existed during the London campaign.

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Swimmers face AOC sanction over drugs