Restrictions on the Sale of Certain Antibiotics

The World Health Organization has established a new framework aimed at preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. According to SBS, experts in the field have developed a special chart distinguishing antibiotics used for specific purposes and impacts. The chart categorizes antibiotics that can be sold freely and those that will be available only under special circumstances.

This distinction is made because sometimes infections that do not pose a significant threat to human health can become untreatable and lead to death due to improper treatment with antibiotics. Experts have calculated that over the next 30 years, antibiotic-resistant infections could result in 2.4 million deaths in Europe, the USA, and Australia.

At the same time, it is noted that around 50% of antibiotics are misused worldwide. For instance, antibiotics are frequently prescribed for viral infections, whereas they should only be used in extreme cases. Conversely, in several countries, the lack of antibiotics has led to an increase in mortality rates.

Thus, approximately 60% of certain antibiotics will be available for unrestricted sale, while the remaining portion will be sold under special regulatory conditions. This will enable the proper use of antibiotics according to their intended purpose and enhance the effectiveness of the medication.