ANTIBIOTICS AND YOU

In Nigeria, studies have shown that there is a high level of irrational use of antibiotics which has contributed to increased resistance of microbial strains. Why would anyone walk into a pharmacy to obtain an antibiotic without a prescription? Antibiotics are a group of medicines that inhibits bacterial growth or kills bacteria. Antibiotics are available as creams, ointments, or lotions. Many infectious illnesses are caused by viruses rather than bacteria. These include common colds, measles, mumps, hepatitis e.t.c.

APPROPRIATE USE OF ANTIBIOTICS

• Antibiotics prescribed to you by your doctor should be taken at regular, specified time intervals such as every four, six, eight or twelve hours. 
• Always take the entire course of antibiotics as directed by your doctor to prevent the bacteria becoming resistant to them. 
• Some antibiotics should not be taken with certain foods and drinks. 
• Some should be taken when there is no food in your stomach usually an hour before meals or two hours after. 
• Don't pressure your doctor for antibiotics if you have a viral infection. For instance, a saline nasal spray is enough to clear a stuffy nose or a mixture of warm water, lemon and honey to temporarily soothe a sore throat. 
• Don't take antibiotics because it had been prescribed to a friend of yours that had similar symptoms. 

SPECIAL CARE

When you are prescribed an antibiotic you should:

• Tell your doctor if you take other medicines or herbal remedies. 
• Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Let your doctor or pharmacist know if you are allergic to antibiotics. 
• Tell your doctor if you have problems with your liver or kidney. 

SIDE EFFECTS 

The most common side-effects of antibiotics are diarrhoea, feeling sick, and vomiting. Some people get a fungal infection such as thrush after taking antibiotics for an extended period of time.This is because, as well as killing the harmful bacteria causing the infection, antibiotics may also destroy your body's good bacteria that prevents micro-organisms such as fungi from growing out of control. 

INTERACTIONS 

Some antibiotics such as rifampicin react with contraceptive pills, hence making them ineffective. Stop inappropriate use of antibiotics today. Get well soon without antibiotics. 

REFERENCES:

• Dr Tim Kenny 
• MayoClinic.com 
• Bupa Uk 
• Olanike O.Kehinde and Babatunde E.Ogunnowo: The pattern of antibiotic use in urban slum in Lagos state,Nigeria..