Why Do Doctors in India Prescribe Antibiotics for a Common Cold?

Many individuals encounter a secondary bacterial infection alongside their viral infection due to their immune systems being busy battling the virus. I am one such person, and when visiting an urgent care doctor with my green snot, they may prescribe antibiotics. The green snot indicates that there are active bacteria in the sinus cavities, and antibiotics effectively combat this.

Possible Reasons for Prescribing Antibiotics Without Clear Indication

There are several potential reasons why doctors might prescribe antibiotics. These include:

Sur-infection: A bacterial infection can take advantage of the virus's presence to infect the already compromised area. Uncertainty in Diagnosis: In primary care settings, it might not always be clear whether the patient has a viral or bacterial infection. Patient Demand: Some patients may insist on antibiotics, even after a thorough explanation of why they might not be needed. Bureaucratic Factors: Influence from lobbying or financial incentives might also play a role in prescribing antibiotics.

Understanding the Doctor's Perspective

Doctors are well aware that bacteria can take advantage of a weakened body and cause further harm. In urgent care settings where time is limited and patients may become long-term nuisances if not prescribed antibiotics, doctors might choose to prescribe them to avoid such situations. However, this is not an ideal solution as it does not promote responsible antibiotic use.

Preventing Secondary Infections

Secondary infections like pneumonia can be particularly concerning because warm, wet, and dark conditions are ideal for bacterial growth. While we understand the rationale behind such prescriptions, from a public health perspective, overprescribing antibiotics can lead to resistance. For instance, a Tamiflu and Z-Pack combination is frequently prescribed, even though it might not be necessary for every cold.

Current Trends in Medicine

Fortunately, not all doctors in India prescribe antibiotics routinely. My personal experience has been that while my children’s colds have sometimes resulted in ear or chest infections and required antibiotics, my current GP often allows the body to manage small infections through its immune system.

In the UK, healthcare providers view the overuse and misuse of antibiotics as a serious issue. This perspective underscores the importance of responsible antibiotic usage to prevent resistance and promote better long-term health outcomes.