Stop! These 5 Antibiotic Myths Are Putting Malaysians Like You at Risk!

Antibiotic resistance is rising in Malaysia, fueled by common misconceptions. Misinformation leads to misuse, making infections harder to treat. Here are 5 myths you need to stop believing!

WORDS PROFESSOR DR ZAMBERI SEKAWI

FEATURED EXPERT PROFESSOR DR ZAMBERI SEKAWI Professor and Senior Consultant Clinical Microbiologist Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

THE THREAT OF ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

• Antibiotics have fundamentally reshaped the landscape of modern medicine, emerging as indispensable allies in the battle against infectious diseases that were once deemed perilous or even fatal.
• These powerful medications have revolutionized healthcare by transforming previously life-threatening infections into treatable conditions, leading to a remarkable decrease in mortality rates and an enhanced quality of life for countless individuals.
• However, the reckless misuse and overprescription of antibiotics—particularly in cases of sore throat, where the majority are caused by viruses—have become pressing concerns, posing a severe threat to their long-term effectiveness.
• This alarming trend is driving the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), an issue that jeopardizes not only individual health but also public health on a global scale.
• If this crisis is allowed to escalate unchecked, even minor infections could evolve into serious health risks, and routine medical procedures could become fraught with peril.

In Malaysia, the challenge is compounded by a widespread lack of awareness and persistent misconceptions surrounding antibiotics.

Here are five misconceptions that need to be addressed.

#1 ANTIBIOTICS CAN CURE VIRAL INFECTIONS

FALSE.

• Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.
• Yet they continue to be misused for viral illnesses.
• Globally, studies show that at least 50% of antibiotics are inappropriately prescribed for viral infections, contributing to unnecessary resistance.

#2 STOPPING ANTIBIOTICS EARLY IS SAFE IF SYMPTOMS IMPROVE

FALSE.

• Patients often stop taking antibiotics once they feel better, assuming the infection is gone.
• This premature discontinuation is a major driver of resistance.
• Bacteria that survive incomplete treatment can adapt, mutate, and become resistant, making future infections more difficult to treat.
• Completing the full prescribed course is essential to ensure all harmful bacteria are eliminated.

 #3 ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AFFECTS PEOPLE, NOT BACTERIA

FALSE.

• A common misunderstanding is that the human body develops resistance to antibiotics.
• In reality, it is the bacteria that become resistant, rendering treatments ineffective.
• Rampant misuse of antibiotics in sore throat, cold, or flu—conditions that are mainly caused by viruses—leads to bacterial resistance, making previously treatable infections harder to manage.
• As resistance increases, infections that were once easily cured with antibiotics may require stronger, more expensive medications that may not always work.

#4 IT’S HARMLESS TO SHARE ANTIBIOTICS OR USE LEFTOVER ANTIBIOTICS

FALSE.

• This practice is extremely dangerous.
• Each infection requires a specific antibiotic, dosage, and duration of treatment.
• Taking the wrong medication—or the wrong dose—not only fails to treat the infection but also contributes to resistance.

#5 ANTIBIOTICS ARE NECESSARY FOR ALL INFECTIONS

• Not every bacterial infection requires antibiotics.
• Mild bacterial infections often resolve or go away on their own with proper rest and hydration.
• Overprescription of antibiotics for minor infections—especially in cases of sore throat that are mainly viral—only accelerates resistance, reduces treatment options, and increases the risk of superbugs.
• In such cases, symptomatic treatment, including throat sprays with low-dose anti-inflammatory medication, may be more appropriate, as recommended by Malaysian medical experts.

CONCLUSION

• The challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents an important opportunity for positive change.
• Each of us has the potential to contribute to a healthier future by making informed choices and using antibiotics responsibly.
• By encouraging those around us to adopt similar practices, we can help ensure the effectiveness of these vital medicines for future generations.