Q11. Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved.

Model Answer:

Introduction

The overuse and unchecked availability of antibiotics without medical supervision contribute significantly to the rise of drug-resistant diseases in India. This public health challenge, known as antimicrobial resistance (AMR), poses serious threats to both individual and community health, as resistant infections often become difficult to treat, leading to prolonged illnesses and higher mortality rates.

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Causes of AMR in India

• Unregulated Antibiotic Sales: Antibiotics are easily accessible over the counter in India, often sold without prescriptions, making them prone to misuse and overuse.
• Lack of Awareness: Misconceptions about antibiotics treating viral infections, coupled with inadequate patient education, lead to inappropriate consumption.
• Self-medication and Incomplete Courses: People frequently self-medicate and fail to complete prescribed courses, allowing pathogens to survive and adapt.
• Agricultural Overuse: Antibiotics used in livestock as growth promoters increase resistance that can transfer to humans through the food chain.

Mechanisms for Monitoring and Control

• National Action Plan on AMR (NAP-AMR): Launched in 2017, this initiative aims to strengthen awareness, surveillance, and research while encouraging rational use of antibiotics.
• Red Line Campaign: A public awareness campaign marking antibiotics with a red line to highlight their restricted use and discourage self-medication.
• AMR Surveillance Networks: Organisations like ICMR and NCDC monitor AMR patterns, helping to tailor public health strategies.

Challenges in Implementation

• Lack of Enforcement: Regulatory measures on antibiotic sales remain weak, particularly in rural areas.
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Insufficient laboratories and trained professionals hinder effective AMR surveillance and data collection.
• Public and Private Sector Coordination: Fragmented healthcare systems make consistent AMR management challenging across sectors.

Conclusion

‍Unchecked antibiotic use in India has led to a significant rise in AMR, demanding urgent action. Strengthening regulations, enhancing public awareness, and building surveillance infrastructure are critical for combating AMR effectively. Without coordinated action, India’s healthcare system may face severe repercussions from drug-resistant infections.

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