Medical professionals are raising alarms about the harmful effects of unnecessary and incorrect use of antibiotics, wa ing that it leads to antibiotic resistance—a condition where drugs lose their effectiveness against microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.

Speaking to the media, Dr. Priyantha Atapattu, Deputy Director General of Laboratory Services at the Ministry of Health, explained the issue:
'Antibiotic resistance occurs when microorganisms develop resistance to the drugs designed to combat them. As a result, these medications lose their power, increasing harm to patients.'

Antibiotics, first introduced with the discovery of penicillin in 1928 and its use starting in 1944, have revolutionized medical treatment. However, their production has sharply declined in recent years due to high costs. Between 2017 and 2023, only ten new antibiotics were developed, leaving medical experts conce ed about dwindling options.

Dr. Sujatha Pathirage, President of the Association of Specialist Doctors in Microbiology, emphasized the growing resistance to existing antibiotics, noting, 'We are running out of antibiotics, and new ones are not being produced at the required pace.'

Dr. Atapattu highlighted the role of both doctors and patients in addressing this issue. He stressed the importance of evidence-based treatment and avoiding overreliance on medication:
'Not all diseases require medication. There are various forms of therapy, including food therapy and sports therapy. Patients must follow prescribed doses and schedules instead of seeking quick fixes.'

Experts urge the public to be aware of the long-term impacts of antibiotic misuse, which can damage vital organs and compromise future treatment options.