Dear all,
Empirical data points to un neccessary use of antibiotics in common cold most often pen v. [*see note below]
I mention here unnecessary because it is coming from clinicians and ordinary people's demand.
Prevalent in sub saharan countries notorious Zambia, Tanzania, South Sudan and DR. Congo.
The use is not limited to pen v but all antibiotics.
Kind regards
Mulenga Lwansa Ph.D
HIFA profile: Dr. Mulenga is Zambian Pharmacist with over 24 years work experience in 4 different sub-Saharan Countries. He is a strong believer in UHC and Health Information for All. He hosts a radio show on Patient safety which is very well received in the communities. Piloted the first ART in Namibia 2001.Have worked in the Management Sciences for Health, Namibia and the UNDP/GFTAM South Sudan. He posses a Dual MPH/Ph.D Pharmacovigilance, USA and a B.Pharm, USDM. Email: lwansa AT yahoo.com He is a HIFA Country Representative http://www.hifa.org/support/members/mulenga
[*Note from NPW, moderator:
pen v = Phenoxymethylpenicillin
Uses: streptococcal pharyngitis; otitis media; cellulitis; mouth infections; secondary prophylaxis of rheumatic fever; post-splenectomy prophylaxis.
Phenoxymethylpenicillin is suitable for oral administration; it has a similar spectrum of activity to benzylpenicillin but is less effective. It should not be used for serious infections because absorption can be unpredictable and plasma concentrations variable. (Source WHO Model Formilary 2009)
