The definition clearly states,” antibiotics do not work for viruses causing cold and flu, but only in bacterial infections and diseases, so using them for viruses won’t help you recover faster”.

But the world seems to think otherwise. Lack of proper guidance leads to misuse, and sometimes overuse of antibiotics. Statistics show an alarming rate of antibiotics used by individuals. Self medication is the biggest challenge in the third world countries. Another major challenge is these antibiotics being so easily accessible. Hence, it is very important to educate the masses, lest it causes an epidemic.

So, knowing your antibiotics is of supreme importance. Usually antibiotics are prescribed by a certified medical practitioner as a respite to any kind of bacterial infection. Bacteria informally called ‘multidrug resistant superbugs’ have a negative impact on our body.

It is a highly misinterpreted theory that all infections are bacterial and can be treated with antibiotics. This isn’t in any way true. As a result of these vague assumptions even during a viral infection, antibiotics are sometimes prescribed. Thus, it can be inferred that antibiotics have little or no effect on viral infections. Also, poor healthcare and education leads to misuse. This misuse is causing several problems when surveyed in and around a larger patient count. Antibiotics being prescribed for viral infections have a negative impact. The most common of it all is “Resistance”. As a result their effectiveness in treating bacterial infections is turning futile or inefficient. Some effects of resistance observed are:

• Inadequate pathogen coverage
• Excessive use of broad spectrum agents
• Sub optimal doses
• Poor adherence to antibiotic therapy

Another setback to antibiotic treatment is retaining an unfinished dose for later use. A major problem is that the masses assume that the treatment regime can be discontinued once the symptoms subside. This is a highly misunderstood concept and needs to be rectified soon. Few classes of drugs can fuel antibiotic resistance as well; the classic example being that of fluroquinolones. Thus, it is very important to streamline and classify diseases and provide appropriate and accurate treatment best suited for eradicating the disease. Otherwise the most effective classes of drugs “Antibiotics” will be known as the most ineffective category.

Sahana Ray

(Final Year B.Pharm.)

Tags: MET Institute of Pharmacy