Why you should not misuse antibiotics

Professor Rodney Adam. [Spice FM]

Some people believe that antibiotics are fit for use in the treatment of common diseases such as a cold or cough. However, experts warn that is not the case.

Speaking on Spice FM on Friday, May 30, Professor Rodney Adam, a pathology and infectious diseases specialist debunked this widespread misconception. 

He explained that antibiotics are meant to treat bacterial infections and not viral infections like colds.

“If you have been taking antibiotics for a cold or flu, that is the wrong prescription,” he said. “The best medication is simply for treating the symptoms, don’t use antibiotics in that setting.”

The misuse of antibiotics has become common in the country mainly due to a popular trend where Kenyans prefer to get their prescription drugs over the counter without seeking professional advice from a medic.

Professor Adam has urged more efficient regulations enforcement efforts to prevent pharmacies from selling antibiotic drugs freely.

“The  issue of antibiotics sold off the counter is a major factor contributing to bacterial resistance, bringing about infections caused by resistant organisms.”

There are instances where patients develop symptoms of cold and cough upon recovery following their use of antibiotics. These reinfections, Professor Adam says, are expected given that the drugs offer no relief adding that some of them even leave side effects.

“Usually when somebody gets sick with a respiratory virus, gets well, then gets sick again, it’s likely to be an infection with another virus,” he said.

Additionally, he noted the growing misuse among children, citing studies linking it to long-term health risks such as obesity, and recommended public health education campaigns to create awareness.