NPS MedicineWise reminds Australians to prevent overuse and misuse of antibiotics

Following from last night’s Catalyst episode, ‘Antibiotic Resistance’ on ABC TV examining Australia’s profligate use of antibiotics, NPS MedicineWise is reminding Australians to preserve the miracle of antibiotics by avoiding antibiotics when they’re not needed.

The program highlighted how for something that is a limited and valuable resource, prescriptions for antibiotics are wasted when they are used on viral infections, such as ordinary colds and flu.

As the winter cold and flu season edges closer, individuals are once again being urged to take action by not expecting, asking for or taking antibiotics when they have viral infections.

NPS MedicineWise Medical Adviser Dr Jeannie Yoo says that the overuse and misuse of antibiotics is contributing to resistance, meaning that previously effective antibiotics may no longer work against particular bacteria, "Without effective antibiotics, infections that were once easy to treat may eventually become untreatable.

"It is very heartening to see the work of Australian researchers who are dedicated to finding the next class of antibiotics.However, it could be many years until any new discovery is made available, and even then, we will still have the issue of antibiotic resistance. It is crucial that all of us take individual responsibility now to ensure our existing antibiotics continue to be effective. Individuals through their own actions and choices can be part of the solution."

This winter, NPS MedicineWise will once again be undertaking a public awareness campaign urging people not to ask for antibiotics when they’re not needed, such as for ordinary colds and flu.