In a worrying trend, residents of Sikar are consuming antibiotics worth ₹65 crores annually, even for minor illnesses like colds and coughs, leading to decreased effectiveness and a rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Experts and health authorities have raised alarms over this misuse, citing the growing difficulty in treating infections.
Antibiotics’ Waning Effectiveness
Overuse of antibiotics has led to a significant reduction in their effectiveness. Hospitals in Sikar are now reporting a fourfold increase in patients resistant to antibiotics compared to four years ago. Most of these cases involve respiratory infections, tuberculosis, asthma, and other chest ailments.
Dr. Ashok Chaudhary, HOD Pediatrics at SK Medical College, explains:
“Patients frequently resort to antibiotics for quick relief, but this misuse suppresses immunity and allows harmful bacteria to develop resistance, making infections harder to treat.”
Alarming Statistics

• ₹65 Crores Annually: Antibiotics now constitute 32% of the ₹250 crore pharmaceutical market in Sikar, as per the Chemist Association.

• 40 Crore Increase: Annual antibiotic sales have surged by ₹40 crores since 2020.

• Lower Recovery Rates: Bacterial infections are becoming more severe as patients struggle to recover despite extended treatments.

The Danger of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)
AMR occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics. Prolonged misuse can lead to:

• Ineffective treatments.

• Weakened immunity.

• Accumulation of toxins in the liver, increasing risks of liver damage.

Dr. Mukesh Verma, Assistant Professor of Medicine at SK Medical College, stresses:
“Unchecked antibiotic consumption is creating drug-resistant bacteria. This makes treatments ineffective and puts patients at higher risk.”
Expert Recommendations

1. Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics: Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections like colds, flu, and sore throats.

2. Consult Doctors: Always discuss past illnesses and medication histories with healthcare professionals before taking antibiotics.

3. Complete Prescribed Courses: Stopping antibiotics mid-course can worsen resistance.

Why It Matters to Pharmacists

• Educating Patients: Pharmacists can play a critical role in discouraging the misuse of antibiotics.

• Stocking Responsibly: Ensuring only prescribed antibiotics are sold with proper documentation.

• Promoting Awareness: Informing customers about AMR and its consequences.

Sikar’s situation underscores the urgent need for public awareness campaigns and stricter regulations to curb antibiotic misuse. The growing AMR crisis is a call to action for pharmacists, healthcare providers, and patients alike.