In the current scenario the role of the internet has changed our thought process which makes us think that we know more than we do, thus hindering our judgement of going to a physician and making us procure the first drug that we have Googled by mentioning our signs and symptoms. This leads to intake of inappropriate and potentially harmful drugs, but in most of the cases, we end up taking “Antibiotics”. These unwanted antibiotics can cause adverse effects in our daily life as mentioned below:

1. Disruption of Gut Microbiota:

Antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiome. Antibiotics kill the bad bacteria that infect the body, but they also kill the good bacteria. This can lead to:

• Reduced microbial diversity
• Altered metabolic activity
• Formation of antibiotic-resistant strains

These changes can negatively impact host health. If left untreated, this can lead to serious health issues.

2. Antibiotic Resistance:

Antibiotic resistance occurs when a random mutation in the DNA of a bacterial cell protects it from the effects of the antibiotic. The bacteria can then reproduce with less competition. Factors that can accelerate antibiotic resistance include:

• Misuse and overuse of antibiotics
• Poor infection prevention and control

Other side effects of taking too many antibiotics include:

• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Feeling or being sick

3. Allergic Reactions:

Taking antibiotics when they aren't needed can weaken the body's ability to fight allergies. This is because antibiotics kill normal bacterial flora.

• Taking antibiotics too often or for the wrong reasons can also create bacteria that are harder to kill. This is called bacterial resistance or antibiotic resistance.

Some allergic reactions to antibiotics include:

• Raised, itchy skin rash (urticaria, or hives)
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Tightness of the throat

4. Impact on Immune System:

Antibiotics don't directly interfere with the immune system. However, taking antibiotics too often or for the wrong reasons can:

• Compromise the immune system
• Cause bacterial resistance
• Trigger autoimmune disease

Antibiotics can destroy healthy gut bacteria. This can alter the immune response against pathogens and affect the digestive system. It can take about six months to recover from the damage done by antibiotics.

To restore healthy gut bacteria, you can eat foods rich in fiber, such as:

• Whole grains
• Nuts, Seeds
• Beans, Lentils
• Berries
• Broccoli
• Peas
• Banana
• Artichoke

The Role of Government:

The Indian government can play a crucial role in addressing antibiotic resistance by implementing and enforcing policies to regulate the use of antibiotics in healthcare, agriculture, and animal husbandry. This includes promoting responsible antibiotic prescribing practices, surveillance of antibiotic use, and raising awareness about the risks of misuse. Additionally, investing in research and development for new antibiotics, improving sanitation and hygiene practices, and collaborating with international organizations are essential steps to combat antibiotic resistance effectively.

Blog by: Mr. Yugal

Supervised by: Dr. Sushama Maratha, Dr. Manvi

Editor: Prof. (Dr.) Vijay Bhalla