Q 1. What do you understand by the term “Antibiotic Resistance (AR)”?
The term “Antibiotic Resistance” means building up a tolerance for the antibiotics available in the market. The more we use antibiotics, the less effective they become.
Q 2. There is a rise in AR worldwide. Explain.
AR is increasing worldwide due to the constant demand for antibiotics by patients. Lack of knowledge from the patient and overprescribing by physicians leads to AR. Patients come down with viral infections (cold and flu) and immediately decide for themselves that nothing will work aside from antibiotics.
Sharing of medications have also led to an increase in AR. Patients take antibiotics for a few days and stop once they feel symptoms going away. No finishing the course of therapy leaves behind bacterias that build up immunity. Bacteria replicate quickly and replicating into an ABX resistant bacteria is quite feasible. Not only do patients not finish their antibiotics, but they also share amongst friends and family. This is harmful rather than beneficial. Antibiotics that are prescribed for you may not necessarily work for someone else. Not only can you possibly cause harm, but resistance is also being built.
Q 3. What are the consequences of AR to human health?
Consequences of AR is the formation of a superbug. Superbug is a strain of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.
Q 4. How can the rise in AR be prevented?
AR can be prevented by not sharing your medications with friends and family. It is also best to use natural remedies or even OTC drugs as opposed to antibiotics. If antibiotics are absolutely necessary, you must complete the course of therapy.
Q 5. How can we spread awareness about AR?
The physician is the main source for spreading awareness. Instead of overprescribing antibiotics to patients, they should be counseled instead on the dangers of taking so many antibiotics.
