Antibiotics are one of modern medicine’s greatest advancements, revolutionizing healthcare by treating and preventing bacterial infections. However, the misuse and abuse of antibiotics have led to a global crisis-Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top 10 public health threats worldwide (WHO, 2019).

In Nigeria, an alarming trend has emerged where antibiotics are misused as a prophylactic after sexual intercourse in an attempt to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This practice, driven by cultural beliefs that antibiotics are a "quick fix" for all infections, has led many to self-medicate rather than seek proper medical advice.

When asked about this issue, Pharm. Yinka Oredola, an accomplished pharmacist and entrepreneur, emphasized the need for informed sexual health practices. She stated:

“Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections but do nothing to prevent or treat infections caused by viruses, parasites, or fungi. STIs cover a broad spectrum of pathogens—including bacterial infections like gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia; viral infections like HIV, herpes simplex virus (HSV), and genital warts; and parasitic infections like trichomoniasis (NCDC, 2022). Additionally, some anaerobic bacteria, which thrive without oxygen, can also be transmitted through sexual intercourse and require specialized antibiotics for treatment. How would an uninformed patient ensure holistic prophylactic coverage when self-medicating? This misuse will only contribute to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder—if not impossible—to treat.”

Without immediate intervention, common bacterial infections could become untreatable, posing a severe public health risk.

A Growing Crisis: The Numbers Speak

The misuse of antibiotics in Nigeria is widespread. According to the Global Research on Antimicrobial Resistance (GRAM, 2019):

1. 60.7% of Nigerians believe antibiotics can treat all infections, including STIs.
2. 88% of Nigerians admit to using antibiotics without a prescription, either through self-medication or over-the-counter purchases (WHO, 2019).
3. Over 75% of surveyed community pharmacies in Nigeria sell antibiotics without a prescription.

Globally, AMR accounted for 4.95 million deaths in 2019, with 1.27 million deaths directly linked to resistant infections (GRAM, 2022). A systematic review on Neisseria gonorrhoeae in sub-Saharan Africa further highlights the rise of multidrug-resistant gonorrhea, including in Nigeria (Collins et al., 2022).

The Way Forward: Combating Antibiotic Abuse

Pharm. Yinka Oredola stresses the need for a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach to curb antibiotic misuse in Nigeria. She recommends:

1. Public health campaigns to raise awareness about antibiotic resistance, proper antibiotic use, and the importance of safe sexual practices.
2. Stricter regulations to ensure antibiotics are dispensed only with valid prescriptions from healthcare providers.
3. Encouraging barrier methods (e.g., condoms) and preventive sexual health practices to reduce the reliance on antibiotics for STI prevention.

The Role of Pharmacists and Healthcare Providers

Pharmacists, as frontline healthcare providers, play a critical role in dispelling myths and promoting responsible antibiotic use. By leveraging their expertise and collaborating with policymakers, medical professionals, and the community, they can lead the fight against AMR while advocating for evidence-based sexual health education.

The Time to Act is Now!

The stakes are high. Without collective action, we risk a future where common infections become life-threatening due to antibiotic resistance. The responsibility lies with individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers to take urgent steps in safeguarding public health.

Together, we can curb antibiotic abuse and protect future generations. The time to act is NOW!