A Consultant Endocrinologist, Dr. Grace Senbanjo, has warned Nigerians about the dangers of self-medication and the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, citing the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, Senbanjo expressed concern over the high rate of antibiotics abuse and self-medication in the country, describing it as a major threat to the nation’s healthcare system.
The use of antibiotics without a prescription from qualified medical experts is a significant cause of antimicrobial resistance, leading to severe infections, complications, and increased mortality. Senbanjo explained that antimicrobial resistance occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents, rendering antibiotics ineffective and making infections difficult or impossible to treat.
The endocrinologist emphasized the importance of proper examination and diagnosis by qualified medical practitioners before prescribing antibiotics. She stressed that both the patient and the drug should undergo a culture test in a laboratory to identify the causative organism and determine the exact antibiotic that can combat it. Senbanjo also warned against using antibiotics to treat viral infections such as colds, flu, coughs, and sore throats without a medical prescription or laboratory confirmation.
Furthermore, she cautioned against incomplete antibiotic treatment, noting that stopping antibiotics after a few days can make them ineffective and lead to further resistance. The normal prescription duration for antibiotics is usually seven days, regardless of how the patient feels, Senbanjo said.
To address the issue, Senbanjo urged the Federal Government and regulatory authorities to intensify efforts toward effective regulation and enforcement of policies on the use and sale of drugs in the country. She also called for increased public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on the proper use of antibiotics and other drugs.
The growing threat of antimicrobial resistance is a significant concern globally, and Nigeria is no exception. The World Health Organization has warned that antimicrobial resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development. By promoting proper use of antibiotics and reducing self-medication, Nigeria can help mitigate the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance and improve public health outcomes.
