Doctors warn against antibiotic misuse as resistance threat grows

Leading medical experts on Monday urged the public to use antibiotics strictly under medical supervision, warning that careless consumption is accelerating the global threat of antibiotic resistance.

Their remarks came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi cited findings from an Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) study highlighting the growing danger of antimicrobial resistance. Echoing the concern, AIIMS Delhi Director Dr M Srinivas stressed that antibiotics should never be treated as over-the-counter remedies.

“At AIIMS, we follow strict department-level protocols and infection control systems. Antibiotics must only be taken when prescribed by a doctor, in the correct dose and for the full duration advised,” he said, adding that the institute has taken a leadership role in promoting responsible usage through training, awareness and adherence to standard operating procedures.

Antibiotics not effective against viral infections

Dr Srinivas explained that antibiotics do not work against viral illnesses, which are typically self-limiting. He said doctors consider factors such as age, immunity and existing health conditions before prescribing antibiotics for possible secondary bacterial infections.

Supporting the Prime Minister’s appeal, Dr Shiv Kumar Sarin, Director of the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, noted that India is the world’s largest consumer of antibiotics. Alarmingly, nearly three out of four infections in hospitals now show resistance or reduced response to common antibiotics.

“Antibiotics are not routine medicines. Their misuse threatens the future of healthcare,” Dr Sarin said, calling for greater responsibility from patients, doctors and the pharmaceutical industry alike.(With ANI inputs)