Could the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant infections in India be attributed to overuse and the unrestricted access to medications without a prescription? Which monitoring and control systems are currently in place? Examine the many topics involved critically (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
TeamSupreme
Model Answer
Introduction
Overuse and free availability of antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription significantly contribute to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India. This issue, known as antibiotic resistance, poses a severe global health threat.
Contributors to Drug Resistance
Overuse of Antibiotics
Unnecessary use of antibiotics, particularly for viral infections, accelerates resistance. For example, antibiotics are often misprescribed for common colds, which are viral in nature and not treatable with antibiotics (World Health Organization, 2021).
Availability Without Prescription
In many regions of India, antibiotics can be purchased easily without a prescription, fostering self-medication. This practice leads to misuse and incorrect dosing, further contributing to resistance (National Centre for Disease Control, 2020).
Incomplete Courses
Patients often fail to complete prescribed courses of antibiotics, allowing some bacteria to survive and develop resistance, complicating future treatments (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020).
Mechanisms for Monitoring and Control
Schedule H1
India has classified certain antibiotics under Schedule H1, mandating pharmacists to keep records of sales and prescriptions. This regulation aims to control distribution but often lacks effective enforcement (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 2019).
National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR)
The Indian government, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has initiated the NAP-AMR to combat antimicrobial resistance. However, its efficacy is hampered by poor implementation and lack of public awareness (WHO, 2022).
Issues Involved
Lack of Awareness
Public ignorance regarding proper antibiotic usage and the consequences of misuse is widespread. Many individuals are unaware of the dangers posed by self-medication.
Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure
The shortage of healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, forces individuals to self-medicate, exacerbating misuse (Indian Medical Association, 2021).
Poor Regulation
Despite existing regulations, many pharmacies continue to sell antibiotics without prescriptions, undermining efforts to manage antibiotic use effectively.
Agricultural Use
The indiscriminate use of antibiotics in poultry and aquaculture further contributes to resistance, as these substances enter the human food chain (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2020).
Conclusion
The overuse and unrestricted availability of antibiotics without prescriptions are significant contributors to drug-resistant diseases in India. Although mechanisms for control exist, their effectiveness is undermined by various systemic issues. Addressing these challenges is essential to combat the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance.
<
Introduction: The overuse and free availability of antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription are significant contributors to the rise of drug-resistant diseases in India. This growing problem threatens public health by diminishing the effectiveness of antibiotics and leading to the spread of resistant bacterial strains.
Contributors to Drug Resistance:
Mechanisms for Monitoring and Control:
Critical Issues:
Conclusion: The overuse and free availability of antibiotics without prescriptions are significant drivers of drug resistance in India. Effective monitoring and control mechanisms include strengthening regulatory frameworks, implementing stewardship programs, and increasing public awareness. Addressing critical issues such as enforcement, surveillance, and cultural factors is essential to combat the rise of drug-resistant diseases.