Misuse of Antibiotics Poses a Serious Health Risk

As colder weather sets in, illnesses become more common and the use of medications increases dramatically. Unfortunately, many people turn to antibiotics whenever they develop a fever or feel unwell. However, the misuse of antibiotics causes more harm than good and can turn these drugs into a public health threat.

In a report by TRT Haber journalist Mine Yargıcı Çiftci, experts emphasize that antibiotic misuse remains a widespread issue—especially during seasonal illnesses such as colds and flu.

Although Turkey banned the sale of antibiotics without a prescription in 2013, specialists underline that there is still significant progress to be made.

When Should Antibiotics Be Used?

According to Prof. Dr. Önder Ergönül, a member of the Turkish Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases:

  • Antibiotics should be used only for bacterial infections.

  • They are ineffective against viral illnesses such as colds and influenza.

  • In some cases, bacteria can become active in individuals with weakened immune systems, and antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor.

Therefore, antibiotics should only be used with a physician’s prescription.

Consequences of Unnecessary Use

Unnecessary antibiotic use contributes to antibiotic resistance, meaning that antibiotics may fail when they are truly needed. As Prof. Dr. Ergönül notes:

“We should view antibiotics not as personal medicines, but as societal medications.”

Rising antibiotic resistance leads to:

  • Difficulty in treating simple infections

  • Longer hospital stays

  • Increased risk to public health

Antibiotics also carry potential side effects, some of which have only recently been discovered as more clinical data becomes available.

Prescription Requirement Shows Positive Results

Turkey has made important progress in reducing unnecessary antibiotic use. Since the prescription requirement was introduced, significant improvement has been recorded:

  • In 2011, 218 million boxes of antibiotics were sold.

  • In 2018, this number dropped to 166 million.

These numbers highlight the importance of public awareness and ongoing educational efforts.

If Antibiotics Must Be Used, What Should Be Considered?

When a doctor prescribes antibiotics, the following points are crucial:

  • Ask how and when the medication should be taken.

  • Learn whether it should be taken before or after meals.

  • Antibiotics should generally be taken with plenty of water.

  • Follow the treatment duration recommended by the doctor.

  • Do not extend the duration unnecessarily.

Conclusion: Awareness Protects Public Health

Reaching for antibiotics at the first sign of a fever may seem like an easy solution, but it can cause long-term harm. Conscious and responsible use is essential for both individual and community health.

As Deritel, we encourage you to prioritize your health.