Antibiotics overuse: Germs, bacteria behind over half of our sicknesses

Hospitals need to have a policy on medicine use.

KARACHI:

Nearly 70 per cent of all health problems in developing countries are caused by germs and bacteria that cause infections and diseases.

The statistics were put forth by Dr Rafiq Khanani of the Infection Control Society of Pakistan (ICSP) while addressing the media at the Karachi Press Club on Wednesday.

Speaking on the abuse of antibiotics in developing countries, ICSP treasurer Dr Saeed Abbasi said the extent of the usage of this medication was “criminal” in Pakistan. “Between 50 and 60 per cent of people use over-the-counter medicines and consume antibiotics prescribed by pharmacists instead of qualified doctors,” he said.

The ICSP gave a few suggestions, called a Charter of Demands, for the government to consider and implement. They include the regulation of medicines, accountability of pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies as well as a policy at hospitals for antibiotic consumption.

Dr Abbasi offered some advice on the purchase and consumption of antibiotics as well. All antibiotics need to be clearly marked with their effects and proper instructions for dosage and calibration. People need to know that antibiotics do not have any effect on the patient before at least 48 to 72 hours.

He advised patients to first complete the dosage prescribed by their physician even if they start feeling the symptoms, such as fever, going away after the first two or three days. If the dose is not completed the germs remain in the body and erupt at a later date. He also encouraged people to take appropriate and timely vaccinations.

The Pakistan Medical and Dental Association regulates registered doctors but there are many who are not registered and there are those who claim to be hakeems and homeopaths, said Dr Khanani.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 7^th,  2011.