2023-11-15 00:00:29
There are bad practices that many people carry out unconsciously without knowing the consequences. The self-medication of antibiotics It is one of the most serious because the impact is not only on one person but on entire communities. That is why it is important to eradicate this type of actions before it is too late.
The proper way to use medicines It is a fundamental pillar in global health. Its importance lies in the direct impact on people’s quality of life and the sustainability of health systems.
Self-medication of antibiotics, a severe current problem
Given this situation, from November 18 to 24 the World Antibiotic Awareness Week. It is an initiative that aims to increase global awareness around antimicrobial resistance. It also seeks to stimulate best practices to ensure effective treatments and better long-term infection control.
What is antimicrobial resistance?
It occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change over time and stop responding to medications. This makes it difficult to treatment of infections and increases the risk of disease spread. As a consequence of the drug resistanceantibiotics and others antimicrobial medications They become ineffective, so infections become increasingly difficult to treat.
“The indiscriminate use of antibiotics is a problem that affects Mexicans more every day. It is an important factor for the development of bacterial resistance, for this reason it is necessary that the patient be guided so that the use of antibiotics is done rationally, as well as compliance with the appropriate treatment” mentioned Dr. Mayra Alejandra Bonilla Reyna, specialist in pediatric medicine and infectious disease.
Why does self-medication affect the body?
The self-medication can lead to long-term allergies and resistance to antibiotics. It is a worrying situation because over time new bacteria or parasites will emerge that will not respond to the therapeutic effects of the medications.
Furthermore, take over-the-counter medications It can hide certain diseases because drugs can alleviate some signs that are relevant for an accurate diagnosis. Likewise, there is the possibility that the symptoms become confused, leading to inadequate treatment, which over time will become ineffective for the body.
Mandatory medical prescription for the acquisition of antibiotics
In Mexico, since 2010 it has been mandatory to show a prescription for the acquisition of antibiotics in pharmacies and health establishments. It is a strategy that emerged to end the indiscriminate use of this type of drugs.
The problem is that not all pharmacies comply with this obligation. Furthermore, there has also been an increase in the drug trafficking in the country. More and more people are turning to social networks and street stalls to purchase antibiotics that are often counterfeit and their consumption is harmful to health.
In summary, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics It is a public health problem that threatens the effectiveness of these medications and puts at risk the ability to treat currently common and serious infections. Antimicrobial resistance is a reality that requires responsible action by health professionals and patients.
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