Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 29: Health experts have strongly cautioned against the over-the-counter use of antibiotics, emphasizing the need for medical supervision amid growing concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. The warnings come shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his last ‘Mann Ki Baat’ of the year, highlighted the “extremely worrying” rise in AMR and urged citizens to avoid casual antibiotic use.
Dr M Srinivas, director at AIIMS, Delhi, stressed, “Do not take antibiotics over the counter if you suspect an infection, fever, or other symptoms. Only a qualified physician can determine the appropriate antibiotic and dosage, ensuring it is taken for the correct duration.” He further noted that self-prescription is harmful and that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections, which require antivirals instead.
Dr Bimal Kumar Das, Professor and Head of the Department of Microbiology at AIIMS, described antibiotic resistance as a major public health concern, warning that bacteria are developing resistance to nearly all commonly used antibiotics. “This is alarming because we have a limited number of effective drugs, and very few new antibiotics are in development. Rational use of existing antibiotics is critical,” he said.
Dr Neha Rastogi, Senior Infectious Diseases Consultant, highlighted the widespread nature of the problem. “India faces a silent pandemic with high rates of infections such as urinary tract infections and pneumonia. Easy access to antibiotics, incomplete courses, and irrational prescribing have accelerated resistance,” she explained.
Experts emphasized that addressing AMR requires a multi-pronged approach: increasing public awareness, promoting behavioral changes, strengthening diagnostic infrastructure, and implementing stringent regulations. Preventive measures like vaccination, proper sanitation, and better environmental management are also crucial.
They urged citizens to follow the “right dose, right duration” principle, avoid self-medication, and rely on early, affordable diagnostics to ensure antibiotics remain effective for future generations.