There is a growing problem with antibiotic resistance
Since the breakthrough discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming in 1928, antibiotics have grown to take centre stage in the world of medicine. However, recent concerns surrounding overuse and the growing problem of antibiotic resistance have led to fears of a future where the treatment could no longer be effective.
Earlier this year, Margret Chan, Director of the World Health Organisation warned of a fast approaching 'post antibiotic era, in effect, an end to modern medicine as we know it.'
Antibiotics work in a number of different ways, and against a variety of bacteria but they do not work against infections caused by viruses.
In the past two decades, modern antibiotics have become synonymous with a trip to the GP for many patients, with medical practitioners sometimes prescribing antibiotics unnecessarily for common illnesses, such as upper respiratory tract infections, which include coughs, colds, fly and sore throats - these are almost always caused by viruses.
In 2007, the General Practice Research Database (GPRD) demonstrated that antibiotics were still being given to more than 90% of patients with chesty coughs, 80% with ear infections, and 60% with sore throats, despite the fact that antibiotics are ineffective in treating infections of the respiratory tract, the majority of which are caused by viruses.
Professor Simon Gibbons, head of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry at University College London comments: "Inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics has led to increasing problems of antibiotic resistance and calls for a reevaluation of the treatment, for both medical practitioners and families looking to safeguard their health.
"There are alternative, well researched, over-the-counter treatments on the market for common minor infections, like coughs and colds. These are scientifically proven to lessen the symptoms and even shorten the period of infection and do not involve the use of antibiotics. Such treatments should be considered as a first preferred option for those suffering from such infections. GP awareness of these alternatives and appropriate advice would also help to reduce inappropriate prescribing and potentially reduce the rates of antibiotic resistance."
Whilst GPs may use antibiotics to treat more serious bacterial infections, many common minor infections can be resolved at home without a visit to the GP. Over-the-counter remedies, such as Kaloba, are widely available from high street pharmacies like Boots without the need for a prescription and are available online too.
For families concerned about their use of antibiotics, Dr Michael Dixon, GP and Chairman of the NHS Alliance offers the following guidance:
How can I help my family and myself?
"People should not expect antibiotics to cure every illness, they are actually ineffective in fighting viral infections. Often, the best thing you can do is let a cold or flu run its course, using an over-the-counter remedy to lessen the symptoms. The recovery process can take up to two weeks and if the illness gets worse during this period, consult your GP. Your GP can also provide advice on how to ease the symptoms, while your body fights off the virus naturally.
When should I take antibiotics?
"Antibiotics are still a very important method of treatment for certain infections, such as some ear and sinus infections, and your doctor will prescribe antibiotics if they are needed to treat these conditions. They are also essential in treating more serious illnesses such as urinary tract infections, tuberculosis and other chest infections, as well as some forms of meningitis, which are actually cause by bacteria.
"As viruses are almost always the cause of common infection, like colds, flus, coughs, bronchitis and sore throats, antibiotics are often not needed. In most cases it is not necessary to see your doctor for a cough or a cold and instead, it would be better to consult your Pharmacist, who can advise the best form of treatment."
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