Antibiotics you are popping could be ineffective

The misuse and self-prescription of antibiotics pose a significant risk to public health. Several commonly self-prescribed antibiotics, such as penicillin-based drugs (eg amoxicillin), macrolides (eg azithromycin), and fluoroquinolones (eg ciprofloxacin), have shown reduced efficacy due to various factors.

The accessibility of antibiotics without a prescription is a pressing issue.
The accessibility of antibiotics without a prescription is a pressing issue. (Representational Image/Reuters)

A recent study has found that many antibiotics commonly prescribed are no longer effective in many parts of the world. Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant, internal medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, throws light on what is the magnitude of antibiotic resistance in India. 

“Antibiotic resistance in India is a critical and escalating concern, significantly impacting healthcare outcomes nationwide. Recent studies have illuminated the magnitude of this issue, indicating that a substantial number of commonly prescribed antibiotics have lost their efficacy in numerous regions across the country. The situation in India is exacerbated by factors such as widespread antibiotic misuse, inadequate regulation, and limited access to healthcare in remote areas. The overuse and misuse of antibiotics, prevalent in both clinical and non-clinical settings, play a pivotal role in the emergence of resistance. This misuse includes inappropriate prescribing by healthcare providers, patient self-medication, unregulated over-the-counter antibiotic availability, and their extensive use in the agricultural sector. Poor sanitation and hygiene in certain regions also contribute to the dissemination of resistant bacterial strains,” he says.

He adds that the magnitude of antibiotic resistance in India is evident across various bacterial infections, including tuberculosis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. High rates of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB) further underscore the severity of the issue. “Addressing antibiotic resistance requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing enhanced antibiotic stewardship, stringent regulations, public awareness campaigns, improved healthcare infrastructure, and investment in novel antimicrobial research and development. Collaborative efforts between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public are crucial to combat the burgeoning threat of antibiotic resistance,” he says.

Which are the antibiotics that are usually self prescribed but are found to have reduced efficacy?

The misuse and self-prescription of antibiotics pose a significant risk to public health. Several commonly self-prescribed antibiotics, such as penicillin-based drugs (eg amoxicillin), macrolides (eg azithromycin), and fluoroquinolones (eg ciprofloxacin), have shown reduced efficacy due to various factors.

Amoxicillin, a widely used penicillin antibiotic, is frequently taken without proper medical consultation for conditions like colds or flu, which are caused by viruses, not bacteria. Overuse of amoxicillin contributes to bacterial resistance, rendering it less effective in treating bacterial infections. Similarly, azithromycin, belonging to the macrolide class, is often misused for conditions it cannot treat effectively, leading to the development of resistant strains of bacteria.

Fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin are powerful antibiotics commonly self-prescribed for mild infections, leading to reduced effectiveness in treating severe bacterial illnesses. These antibiotics may have serious side effects and should only be used under a doctor’s guidance. Self-medication and improper use not only diminish their efficacy but also foster the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. When these drugs are needed to combat serious infections, their reduced effectiveness can lead to treatment failure, prolonged illnesses, etc.

Which are the antibiotics that should not be used without prescription but are commonly sold OTC?

The accessibility of antibiotics without a prescription is a pressing issue. Several antibiotics are commonly sold over the counter (OTC), despite the critical need for a prescription due to their potential side effects, development of antibiotic resistance, and inappropriate usage. One such antibiotic is Amoxicillin, a widely used and effective antibiotic against various bacterial infections. Its availability without a prescription raises concerns regarding incorrect self-diagnosis, inadequate dosage, incomplete treatment courses, etc. Similarly, Ciprofloxacin is crucial for specific bacterial infections but has associated risks, including tendon damage and the promotion of resistant strains. Tetracycline antibiotics, including Doxycycline and Minocycline, are also occasionally available without a prescription. They are potent broad-spectrum antibiotics with the potential for adverse effects, such as tooth discolouration in children and interference with contraceptive pills.

Get live Share Market updates, Stock Market Quotes, and the latest India News
This article was first uploaded on November twelve, twenty twenty-three, at thirty-nine minutes past five in the morning.
X