India Largest Consumer Of Antibiotics In The World

1
161

WASHINGTON – India has emerged as the world’s largest consumer of antibiotics followed by China and the U.S., according to a new study which quantifies the growing alarm surrounding antibiotic-resistance.

Global use of antibiotics is surging, according to Princeton University researchers who have conducted a broad assessment of antibiotic consumption around the world.

The study, “Global Trends in Antibiotic Consumption, 2000-2010,” found that worldwide antibiotic use has risen a staggering 36 per cent over those 10 years, with five countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) – responsible for more than three-quarters of that surge.

Among the 16 groups of antibiotics studied, cephalosporins, broad-spectrum penicillins and fluoroquinolones accounted for more than half of that increase, with consumption rising 55 per cent from 2000 to 2010.

The study quantifies the growing alarm surrounding antibiotic-resistant pathogens, and a loss of efficacy among antibiotics used to combat the most common illnesses.

The report also highlights an increasing resistance to carbapenems and polymixins, two classes of drugs long considered “last resort” antibiotics for illnesses without any other known treatment.

Overall, the study reviewed patterns, seasonality and frequency of use of antibiotics in 71 countries.

The data underscore the welcome evidence that more global citizens are able to access and purchase antibiotics.

Comments are closed.