Buying antibiotics from pharmacies without prescriptions is dangerous
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week highlights the risks of AMR
Aster Prime Hospital Microbiologist Dr. Arcy Billoria provides insights
Many people, when experiencing minor ailments like a cough, sore throat, or fever, often rush to pharmacies to purchase antibiotics without consulting a doctor. Moreover, they discontinue the antibiotics after one or two doses instead of completing the prescribed course. Such practices contribute to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), where antibiotics lose their ability to effectively treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This condition makes infections harder to treat and poses significant public health risks.
World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) is observed annually from November 18 to 24 to raise awareness about AMR and prevent its spread. On this occasion, Dr. Arcy Billoria, Microbiologist at Aster Prime Hospital, explained the risks associated with antibiotic misuse and offered essential guidance to combat AMR.
Impact of AMR:
AMR leads to prolonged infections, increased mortality rates, and the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms or “superbugs.” The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified AMR as one of the top 10 global health threats. According to the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM), AMR causes approximately 1 million deaths annually and could result in 39 million deaths by 2050 if left unaddressed.
Key Causes of AMR:
One of the leading causes of AMR is the misuse of antibiotics. Many people take antibiotics without a prescription, discontinue them prematurely, or use leftover medication. Dr. Billoria emphasized that such behavior must stop. Antibiotics should be used only under a doctor’s guidance, in the prescribed dosage, and for the recommended duration.
Avoid the Following Practices:
Demanding antibiotics from doctors unnecessarily.
Taking antibiotics prescribed for others.
Using leftover or expired antibiotics.
Infections Not Requiring Antibiotics:
Common colds, runny noses, sore throats, and diarrhea are typically caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. Using them unnecessarily can disturb the body’s natural bacterial balance and lead to resistance.
Vaccination’s Role:
Vaccination can prevent bacterial infections, reducing the need for antibiotics. Ensuring good hygiene practices like regular handwashing and covering the mouth while coughing or sneezing can also prevent infections.
Dr. Billoria urged everyone to use antibiotics responsibly to preserve their effectiveness for future generations and avoid a health crisis caused by resistant infections.