McGimpsey Urges Responsible Use Of Antibiotics

These guidelines were launched on the inaugural European Antibiotic Awareness Day. The aim of the Northern guidelines is to emphasise the importance of both prescribing and taking antibiotics responsibly.

The guidelines draw GPs attention to the most appropriate antibiotic to prescribe when indicated and will help avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics. Anyone taking antibiotics will also be encouraged to follow their doctor's instructions on if and how to take them.

The Minister said: "It is important for the public to be aware that antibiotics do not cure all ills. In fact, the more often you use an antibiotic the greater chance you have of building up a resistance to them.

"Also, antibiotics have no effect on colds and flu.

"Antibiotic resistance is a growing problem, and we need to ensure antibiotics are only prescribed when they really need to be. By using antibiotics less often we can slow down the development of resistance. It's not possible to stop it completely, but slowing it down stops resistance spreading and keeps our antibiotics effective for the future.

"The guidelines will help GPs when they are prescribing antibiotics for common infections. They will be able to use this guide to ensure that they prescribe the most effective antibiotic for the particular illness."

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr Elizabeth Mitchell said: "The over-use of antibiotics has also contributed to the increase in healthcare associated infections, often called 'superbugs'.

"Taking antibiotics when they are not needed helps resistant bacteria grow, and then the antibiotics that once cured the infection are no longer effective.

"So it is important that antibiotics are used wisely; follow you doctor's advice. They will know best if you need an antibiotic, and follow their instructions to keep yourself and others safe."