Antibiotics cannot now be prescribed and dispensed at pharmacies in South Africa. Antibiotics should thus only be provided with a legitimate prescription that is endorsed by a licensed doctor. Pharmacies must be licensed by the South African government and be managed and supervised full-time by a qualified pharmacist. Pharmacists are required to take a leadership position in the rational use of medications, especially antibiotics, in addition to serving as a key community educator and counseling patients on proper medication usage.
Can I purchase antibiotics without a prescription?
All intramuscular, intravenous, and oral antibiotics must be prescribed by a physician under federal law. Nevertheless, topical antibiotics like Bacitracin (Neosporin) and Benzoyl Peroxide are sold over-the-counter for treating small burns, scrapes, and wounds.
Can South African pharmacists give antibiotics?
To acquire antibiotics from a hospital or private pharmacy, you must have a prescription or verbal instructions from an authorized physician known to the management pharmacist. Unrestricted over-the-counter sales are not the main issue of national antibiotic stewardship.
Can my pharmacist give me an antibiotic prescription?
Most of the time, pharmacists may only recommend antibiotics to patients who are eligible for PIPs. If a patient is under a patient group directive (PGD), there is another situation that allows a pharmacist to administer antibiotics, according to Abdeh.
How can I tell whether I require antibiotics?
If the symptoms are severe and include a high temperature, nasal discharge, and a strong cough, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Additionally, antibiotics could be required if you start to feel better after a few days but then your symptoms come back or if the illness persists for longer than a week.
What occurs if you take antibiotics when you don’t need to?
Taking medications when you don’t need to increases the likelihood that you and your family may get illnesses that are difficult to cure with antibiotics. Common diseases, minor injuries, and regular procedures will all become substantially hazardous without swift action from all of us.
