Why can't cephalosporins be bought in pharmacies?
Recently, the discussion about antibiotic purchase restrictions has become a hot topic again, especially the issue of why cephalosporin antibiotics cannot be purchased freely in pharmacies has attracted widespread attention. This article will analyze the policy background, abuse hazards, regulatory measures, etc., and attach relevant data for readers' reference.
1. Policy background: Antibiotic abuse has become a global problem
China has gradually strengthened antibiotic management since 2012. In 2021, the National Health Commission issued the "Notice on Further Strengthening Antimicrobial Drug Management to Contain Resistance", which clearly stipulates that antibiotics such as cephalosporins must be purchased with a prescription. The following is the evolution of antibiotic management policies in the past 10 years:
| Year | Policy name | core content |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | "Measures for the Management of Clinical Application of Antibacterial Drugs" | Implement a hierarchical management system for antibiotics |
| 2016 | National Action Plan to Contain Bacterial Resistance | Establish a drug resistance monitoring system |
| 2021 | "Notice on Further Strengthening Antimicrobial Drug Management to Contain Resistance" | Strengthen prescription review and ban online sales |
2. Special characteristics of cephalosporin antibiotics
1.High risk of drug resistance: According to WHO statistics, China’s antibiotic resistance rate is 30% higher than the global average, with cephalosporin resistance being a particularly prominent problem.
2.Many adverse reactions: Cephalosporins may cause the following adverse reactions:
| Type of adverse reaction | incidence | high risk groups |
|---|---|---|
| allergic reaction | 1-3% | Penicillin allergy |
| gastrointestinal reactions | 5-10% | elderly patients |
| Liver and kidney damage | 0.5-2% | People with liver and kidney dysfunction |
3. Current regulatory measures
1.prescription drug management system: All cephalosporin antibiotics are included in the prescription drug list and must be purchased with a doctor's prescription.
2.Pharmacy sales restrictions: The latest inspection data in 2023 shows:
| Check items | Compliance rate | Main questions |
|---|---|---|
| Prescription review | 78.5% | Incomplete prescription registration |
| Drug classification display | 92.3% | Missing warning signs |
| Internet sales | 65.1% | Illegal promotion |
4. Common misunderstandings among the public
1."If you have a cold, you should take cephalosporin": 90% of colds are caused by viruses, and antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
2."Stop taking the medication as soon as the symptoms disappear.": It can easily lead to the reactivation of bacteria and the development of drug resistance. A complete course of treatment is crucial.
3."You can continue to take the remaining medicine from last time.": Different infections require different treatment plans, and random use of drugs is risky.
5. Suggestions for correct use
1. Strictly follow the doctor’s instructions and complete the prescribed course of treatment
2. Avoid drinking alcohol during medication (may cause disulfiram-like reaction)
3. Pay attention to the storage conditions of drugs and dispose of expired drugs in a timely manner
4. Seek medical attention immediately if allergic symptoms such as rash or difficulty breathing occur.
6. International comparison
| country | management level | special regulations |
|---|---|---|
| USA | prescription drugs | Some states require electronic prescriptions |
| United Kingdom | POM (prescription medicine) | Community pharmacists have limited prescribing rights |
| Japan | Medical pharmaceuticals | Need to keep a copy of the prescription |
In summary, the purchase restriction of cephalosporin antibiotics is a necessary measure based on scientific management and public health considerations. The public should establish a concept of rational drug use and jointly curb the "silent epidemic" of bacterial resistance.
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