Health regulator urges limited, supervised use of NSAIDs and antibiotics

A recent advisory from the drug regulator cautions both consumers and healthcare providers to use NSAIDs and antibiotics only when medically indicated, at appropriate doses, and for limited periods under qualified supervision. It specifically warns the public against taking these drugs repeatedly or without prescription, noting that antibiotics should not be used for viral infections. Doctors are urged to consider patient age, co-morbidities, and other risk factors, choosing the minimal effective NSAID dose and adhering to antimicrobial stewardship principles when prescribing antibiotics.

Pharmacists, retailers, and distributors must comply with Schedule H and related regulations, refraining from encouraging self-medication. Hospitals are asked to strengthen rational prescribing systems, monitoring, and patient counseling, while state drug authorities should raise awareness of the risks of misuse, including renal complications and antimicrobial resistance.