Survey Reveals Rampant Misuse of Over-the-Counter Antibiotics in Mumbai, Raising Concerns About Antimicrobial Resistance

The survey, conducted on 4,511 people over a month, found that many residents of Mumbai use antibiotics without consulting a doctor, exacerbating the risk of AMR, a serious public health challenge in India.

A recent survey by Fortis Hospitals Mumbai has revealed widespread misuse of over-the-counter antibiotics in the city, contributing to the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

The survey, conducted on 4,511 people over a month, found that many residents of Mumbai use antibiotics without consulting a doctor, exacerbating the risk of AMR, a serious public health challenge in India.

AMR occurs when bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, making infections harder to treat and potentially leading to the spread of dangerous germs. Misuse, such as not completing prescribed antibiotic courses or taking antibiotics without medical advice, gives bacteria more opportunities to adapt and become resistant, reducing the effectiveness of treatment.

Speaking to IndiaToday.in, Dr Farah Ingale, Director-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, said that most people end up buying antibiotics without consulting the doctor because they are easily accessible.

"There is a lack of awareness and limited understanding about proper use of antibiotics and the ensuing resistance. Also, a cultural factor is at play, where, under the influence of family and friends, individuals often experiment with medication without consulting a doctor," Dr Ingale added.

Key Highlights

The survey, which included participants aged 26 to 50 years, revealed several concerning trends:

Only 43% of respondents consulted a doctor before using over-the-counter antibiotics.

More than half (53%) shared antibiotics with family or friends experiencing similar symptoms.

Only 39% completed their prescribed antibiotic courses.

40% of respondents were unaware of the risks of not completing antibiotic regimens.

61% discussed antibiotic use with doctors only during routine follow-ups.

71% did not understand the difference between bacterial and viral infections.

According to Dr S Narayani, Business Head at Fortis Hospitals Maharashtra, self-medication based on limited knowledge is fuelling AMR and there needs to be awareness about judicious antibiotic use.

Dr Anita Mathew, Director of Internal Medicine at Fortis Mulund, said, "Antibiotics are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They need to be tailored based on the infection site and the bacteria we suspect. For conditions like the flu, which is caused by a virus and not bacteria, antibiotics are not effective. Since flu is self-limiting, it typically resolves on its own without the need for antibiotics."

She further urged patients to avoid over-the-counter antibiotics and rely on professional advice.

Dr Kirti Sabnis, an Infectious Disease Specialist at Fortis Kalyan, warned of the growing threat of AMR, stating, "Stopping antibiotics prematurely or using them unnecessarily leads to resistant bacteria, making future infections harder to treat."

"People need to be aware that vaccinations are not just for children, but also for adults, especially those with comorbidities like Diabetes, Obesity, Liver disease, or autoimmune disorders, for which they might be on steroids One must follow their doctor's vaccination recommendations to help prevent recurrent infections due to low immunity," added Dr Sabnis.

The survey also raised concerns about the role of pharmacists in dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions.

"Many a times antibiotics are dispensed without prescription and without counselling on proper use, leading to antibiotic resistance, and in a way, it might lead to misuse, as all infections do not require antibiotics," Dr Ingale pointed out.

Experts recommend vaccination as a crucial strategy to combat AMR. "Vaccinations play a vital role in reducing antibiotic resistance by reducing its overuse or misuse. Vaccinations help prevent bacterial, viral, and protozoan infections, so people fall ill less frequently, reducing the need for antibiotics," Dr Ingale stated.

The survey's findings underscore the need for increased public awareness and education on the responsible use of antibiotics. The problem of AMR extends beyond Mumbai, affecting the entire country, and urgent action is needed to address it.

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