Docfan Academy

Antibiotics are among the most important medicines ever made. They treat bacterial infections. But bacteria learn to survive them. When that happens, the infection is called resistant and the medicine stops working. This is antimicrobial resistance (AMR). It is a worldwide threat, and Ethiopia is no exception.

Why resistance grows

Every time an antibiotic is used, bacteria that can survive it get a chance to multiply. The more antibiotics are used when they are not needed, or used badly, the faster resistant bacteria spread. Resistant infections last longer, cost more and can be more dangerous.

Four messages for every customer

• Antibiotics do not treat colds and flu. These are caused by viruses. Antibiotics work only on bacteria.
• Do not stop early without advice. Take the medicine exactly as the prescriber and the label say. If there is a problem, such as a reaction, go back to the prescriber instead of simply stopping.
• Never share antibiotics and never keep leftovers for next time. What suited one person may be the wrong medicine for another person, or the wrong germ.
• Use them only when prescribed by a qualified prescriber who has seen the patient.

Your role: stewardship

Stewardship means using antibiotics only when they are needed, and in the right way. At the counter and in the dispensary you can:

1. Dispense antibiotics only against a valid prescription.
2. Check name, strength and form, then label clearly.
3. Explain how to take the medicine and for how long, and tell the patient to ask you or the prescriber about missed doses or side effects.
4. Explain, in one kind sentence, why a cold does not need an antibiotic.
5. Store antibiotics as labelled and never sell expired stock.
6. Promote hand hygiene, vaccination and clean water. They prevent infections in the first place, so fewer antibiotics are needed.