Antibiotic Resistance: Causes, Risks, and How to Prevent It

Introduction

Antibiotics are important medicines used to treat bacterial infections. However, many people take them whenever they feel sick, even when the illness may be caused by a virus.

This misuse can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making some infections harder to treat. Understanding how antibiotics work, when they are needed, and how to use them responsibly can help protect your health and the health of others. 

What Are Antibiotics?

Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They work by killing bacteria or stopping them from multiplying. They are commonly prescribed for certain bacterial infections, but they do not treat viral illnesses such as the common cold or flu.

What Is Antibiotic Resistance?

Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria develop the ability to survive medicines that would normally kill them or stop their growth.

This does not mean that the human body becomes resistant to antibiotics. Instead, the bacteria change and become harder to treat.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately one in six laboratory-confirmed bacterial infections worldwide in 2023 was resistant to antibiotic treatment.

Common Mistakes People Make When Using Antibiotics

1. Taking Antibiotics Without a Prescription

 Some people buy antibiotics without consulting a qualified healthcare professional. This can lead to using the wrong medicine or taking it when it is not needed.

2. Using Leftover Antibiotics

Keeping antibiotics from a previous illness and using them for a new illness can be harmful. The medicine may not be appropriate for the current infection.

3. Sharing Antibiotics With Others

An antibiotic prescribed for one person may not be suitable for another. Different illnesses require different treatments.

4. Taking Antibiotics for Viral Infections

Antibiotics do not work against viruses. Taking them for a cold or flu will not cure the illness and may expose you to unnecessary side effects.

5. Not Following the Prescribed Instructions

Taking antibiotics differently from how they were prescribed can affect treatment. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional, and ask a pharmacist or prescriber if you are unsure what to do.

How Can You Help Prevent Antibiotic Resistance?

You can help reduce antibiotic resistance by taking these steps:

• Use antibiotics only when prescribed by an appropriate healthcare professional.

• Follow the prescribed dose and instructions.

• Do not share antibiotics or use someone else's medicine.

• Do not save leftover antibiotics for future illnesses.

• Ask a healthcare professional whether antibiotics are necessary for your illness.

• Practise good hygiene, wash your hands regularly, and keep vaccinations up to date where recommended.

The Role of Pharmacists in Promoting Responsible Antibiotic Use

Pharmacists play an important role in promoting the safe and responsible use of medicines.

They can explain how prescribed antibiotics should be taken, discuss possible side effects, identify potential medicine interactions, and help patients understand why antibiotics should not be used unnecessarily.

If you have questions about an antibiotic, speak with a pharmacist or your prescriber rather than guessing or changing how you take it.