Introduction Background Antibiotics are types of medication used to kill or slow the growth of bacteria. They were first discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928, where Penicillin was born. Antibiotics are prescribed in the case of bacterial infection only; they are ineffective in the case of viral or any other type of infections. The US National Library of Medicine says that antibiotics can save lives when used properly. The ability to treat various infections has raised life expectancies and living standards. Problem Antibiotics overuse and misuse are a worldwide concern. The issue was first addressed by Alexander Fleming, the pioneer of antibiotics. This overuse leads to catastrophic effects on our lives and the community as a whole. It …show more content…
It will focus on the consequences of such practices, and the significant costs it add to health care, and some strategies and interventions to abate this …show more content…
It is not an issue that we can set aside or disregard; this is a Pandora’s Box, and if not handled properly, it can set us back to the dark ages. Recommendations As an individual, by implementing the following recommendations, you are playing a role in the effective management of antibiotics use: 1. Ask wisely: Ask your doctor, when prescribing an antibiotics, if that is necessary for your recovery. Also ask is there an alternative? 2. Use responsibly: Know when it is effective to use antibiotics, and refrain from them for viral infections such as flu, colds, and coughs. 3. Never take antibiotics without prescription: Even though that it is possible to get over-the counter antibiotics here in Lebanon, forgo its use as they do more harm than good. 4. Do not use stockpiled medication: taking leftover antibiotics can disguise your true symptoms and hinder the diagnosis process. It can also lead to serious