Self-medication: The habit of self-medication can be detrimental to health. Know why medicines are becoming ineffective?

News Topical, Digital Desk : Dangers of Self-Medication: In recent times, diseases have rapidly made their way into people's minds. This is why every household medicine cabinet is stocked with some pills, be it for fever, cough, or sore throat. Yes, we are talking about antibiotics, which people often use for quick relief. But experts clearly warn that this habit can backfire in the long run. Antibiotic resistance, once considered a distant problem, has now become a rapidly growing threat. Misuse of these medicines can complicate even simple infections and leave you more vulnerable.

Antibiotics are no longer as effective as they once were.

For the past few years, doctors around the world have been sounding the alarm about this silent but dangerous crisis. Antibiotics are no longer as effective as they once were. Dr. Amrita Gupta, Consultant Physician (Internal Medicine) at Auro Superspeciality Hospital, Patna, explains, "Antibiotics were once considered miracle drugs, but their reckless use has allowed bacteria to mutate and become stronger. Now, patients often come in whose simple infections cannot be cured by basic antibiotics. The main reasons for this are self-medication, incomplete courses, or misuse of medications." As a result, infections are now leading to more difficult, expensive, and risky treatments.

What does WHO say? 

The World Health Organization has also listed antibiotic resistance as one of the world's biggest health threats. This problem is growing rapidly in India because antibiotics are easily available without prescriptions, and in many places, the method of administering medicines is different, leading people to avoid consulting a doctor. Amrita Gupta says, "This is no longer just an individual issue. Misuse of antibiotics can put entire communities at risk as drug-resistant infections spread."

Some steps to keep yourself safe

Stop taking antibiotics on your own – Using leftover medicines at home is not beneficial, but rather harmful. Amrita Gupta says, "Never take antibiotics without consulting a doctor. They are not needed for a common cold or viral fever."

Complete the full course of medication – Discontinuing medication when you feel partially cured is a major mistake. Stopping antibiotics mid-course allows the strongest bacteria to survive and become resistant. Therefore, it is important to complete the full course.

Don't insist on an antibiotic – doctors know when antibiotics are needed. If your doctor doesn't prescribe them, trust their judgment.

Read More: Self-medication: The habit of self-medication can be detrimental to health. Know why medicines are becoming ineffective?