Thiruvananthapuram: The state has reported a steep decline in sales of antibiotic drugs in the past one year. Of the total medicines worth Rs 15,000 crore sold in the state annually, antibiotics accounted for Rs 4,500 crore.
However, due to strict government regulations, sales of antibiotics at hospitals and medical stores fell by Rs 100 billion.
After findings that several infectious viruses were becoming resistant to antibiotics, the state health department stepped in a year ago to curb overuse of antibiotics. As part of the effort, the health department decided to revoke the licences of pharmacies that sell antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. Officials have also instructed medical organisations such as the Indian Medical Association to be cautious while prescribing antibiotics to patients.
The All Kerala Chemists and Druggists Association blames the Rs 1,000 crore fall in antibiotic sales mainly on government intervention and a decline in doctors prescribing antibiotics.
The state government’s health centre, through the Kerala Health Services Corporation, purchases medicines worth Rs 800 crore annually. Restrictions have been extended to purchase of antibiotics in this sector. Moreover, antibiotic resistance is on the rise in other sectors such as dairy farming, poultry farming and fishing.
Serious issues
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites evolve to become resistant to drugs, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severity and death. It is a serious challenge facing the global health sector.
When pathogens acquire resistance, drugs become less effective, illnesses worsen over time, and treatment costs rise dramatically. Studies have revealed that at least 10 million people could die from AMR if unscientific use of antibiotics is not regulated.
Things to consider
- Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.
- Antibiotics should only be used if prescribed by a doctor.
- Once you have completed your course of treatment, you should never use any leftover antibiotics.
- Do not dispose of antibiotics in water or on land.
- Be sure to complete any prescribed antibiotic courses, even if you feel better.
