Chapter 20, Problem 1AC

Summary Introduction

To review:

The reason and implications of purchasing antibiotics without the doctor’s prescription in some developing countries.

Introduction:

Some drugs can be purchased from pharmacy without doctor’s prescription. Such drugs are also known as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, like acetaminophen. These drugs are quite harmless and used for simple conditions, like pain. However, in some countries antibiotics can be purchased without prescription. This practice can cause severe problems for the community health in long-term, like antibiotic resistance and death of beneficial bacteria.