How Do Prescription Drugs Contribute to Antimicrobial Resistance?
The overuse and misuse of antibiotics are major contributors to the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Epidemiologists study prescription patterns and the emergence of resistant strains to develop guidelines for the appropriate use of antibiotics. Efforts to combat AMR include promoting antibiotic stewardship programs and educating healthcare providers and the public about the risks of improper antibiotic use.