Multiple countries need to fix their inadequate regulations to stop aggravating antibiotics resistance, including:
- India where there is “Inappropriate use of antibiotics […] Largely unrestricted over-the-counter sales”
- China as you mentioned, need to continue efforts to reduce antibiotics (mis)use.
- European countries are collectively the world’s biggest importer of food, including farmed animals periodically dosed with antibiotics. A 2022 ban on routine antibiotic use should hopefully avoid worst abuses on antibiotics, including for imports.
I was also shocked to learn the US have over the counter antiobiotics that people pop for random illness and minor cuts/scrapes. Pretty much unthinkable here (EUN)
We absolutely do not have over-the-counter antibiotics, they need a prescription every time
Besides the topicals OTC that i outlined in here, US friends of mine “keep” their remaining prescription ABs for when they are sick again.
Like he got prescribed some for a COLD and then kept them to pop when he gets the next COLD :'D
Its nuts. Some OTC, others simply overprescribed.
Here you get a prescription if you have a severe infection, OR a substantial injury with high risk.
Yes, some topical AB are available according to a quick online search
Some topical antibiotics can be purchased as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines.
However, it is always recommended that you consult a medical expert before purchasing and using any medication.
Topical antibiotics are used to treat skin wounds, scrapes, scratches, and minor burns.
They are available in ointment, cream, spray, or powder forms and are used to prevent infection in topical skin ailments.
Some over-the-counter topical antibiotics include: Bacitracin (Neosporin)
Polymyxin (Polysporin)
Neomycin (Neosporin Plus Pain Relief)
Pramoxine
Benzoyl peroxide (Proactiv)
