Indiscriminate use of antibiotics poses a serious health risk

It has become quite common for most of the people to take antibiotics even for minor health problems. Some people have a misconception that the intake of antibiotics is an immediate cure for any health problem. Majority of people are not aware of the harmful side effects of indiscriminate intake of antibiotics as they kill both the targeted and good bacteria.

Consequently, the immune system of the body will be affected. The excess use of antibiotics has emerged as a major health concern in modern times. Self-medication and over the counter sale of drugs by some pharmacists are said to be the major reasons for the increase in use of antibiotics in both urban and rural areas.

Some unscrupulous private practitioners and RMPs are also prescribing antibiotics as a panacea for even minor health problems to win the trust of patients. Take the case of G Padmavathi, an asthma patient, whose immune system was affected due to indiscriminate use of antibiotics. ``I took antibiotics for quite a long time for my asthma without the supervision of a physician.

As a result, I was affected by kidney problem. Though I am taking medicines regularly as prescribed by a nephrologist, they are not effective in curing my problem because the indiscriminate intake of antibiotics damaged my body immune system,’’ she said.

Speaking to The Hans India, P Rambabu, Additional Director, Drugs Control Administration, Krishna district, admitted the fact that the indiscriminate use of antibiotics had become a serious health concern. ``The problem is more severe in rural areas. Lack of awareness among people about the harmful side effects of indiscriminate intake of antibiotics is complicating the matter further.

The friendly bacteria present in the intestines get destroyed by excess intake of antibiotics. The destruction of the friendly bacteria affects digestion and the body immune system to fight infections.In some cases, it may lead to dysbiosis. There is an every need to educate people on the harmful effects of indiscriminate use of antibiotics.’’

On measures initiated by the Drugs Control Administration in this regard, he said, ``We are planning to conduct a massive awareness programme to educate people on the harmful side effects of excess use of antibiotics.

We have already directed pharmacists not to sell antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. We hope that the awareness programme and curbs on the sale of antibiotics will help check the alarming trend.’’

By Sistla Dakshina Murthy