How to research
Drug resistance refers to the ineffectiveness of previously effective drugs against bacteria and viruses. To find out more about drug resistance against bacteria, refer to the "Drug Resistance (AMR) Awareness Video 'STOP AMR'" by the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, the "Measures against Drug Resistance (AMR)" website by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, and books on medicine and pharmacology.
How to summarize
Summarize the dangers and causes of drug-resistant bacteria.
It would also be good to discuss what can be done to prevent drug-resistant bacteria.
What are drug-resistant bacteria?
Antimicrobial agents [antibiotics] have been developed to control bacteria that cause infectious diseases.
Bacteria that do not respond to antimicrobial agents (antibiotics) are called drug-resistant bacteria. Currently, the number of drug-resistant bacteria is increasing, and it is becoming a problem throughout the world.
Causes of drug resistance
Take medicines you don't need
There are various types of bacteria and viruses that can harm the body, and antibacterial drugs (antibiotics) are treatments that kill bacteria.
（Antiviral drugs (e.g., anti-influenza drugs) kill viruses.)
If antimicrobials (antibiotics) are taken when there are no bacteria to harm, the bacteria in the body can develop resistance to the antimicrobials (antibiotics).
For example, taking antimicrobials (antibiotics) when you have a cold or influenza caused by a virus does not work, and conversely causes drug resistance.
In addition, if the antibacterial drugs (antibiotics) given at the hospital are not taken as directed, only the bacteria that are weak against the drugs may disappear, and resistant bacteria may survive, or the necessary bacteria in the body may disappear.
Danger of drug-resistant bacteria
When infections caused by drug-resistant bacteria become prevalent, the number of effective antimicrobial options decreases, making treatment more difficult and increasing the number of people who become seriously ill.
In particular, the elderly and people with chronic diseases are at greater risk of becoming seriously ill.
Preventing drug-resistant bacteria
Take the medicines you receive at the hospital according to the instructions given by the doctor.
Do not stop taking a drug midstream or reduce the frequency or dosage just because your symptoms lessen.
Do not give medicines given to you by a doctor to other people or get them from other people.
Do not give leftover medicines to others or take medicines given to you by others.
Prevent yourself from getting sick.
Protect yourself from getting sick by washing your hands, gargling, and getting vaccinated.
■Other sites for reference
The Council for Appropriate Use of Drugs (CARICOM). Drug Resistance (AMR)
Children's Infectious Disease Navi
Children's Infectious Disease Navi
Sukoyaka Compass: Understanding Drugs: How Drugs Work Vol. 3: Eliminating Bacteria and Viruses
Sukoyaka Compass Monthly Karada Column: Prevent infection by washing hands correctly
Summary
Drug resistance is increasing due to the failure to take medicines correctly.
Drug resistance can be prevented by taking medicines correctly.
