To combat the global health concern of antibiotic resistance, and focus on the importance of rational antibiotic use, the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA) conducted an awareness program in Chittagong on 3 June 2023. As part of this initiative, the DGDA introduced healthcare professionals to the WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification, a tool developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to guide prescribers in selecting appropriate antibiotics for common infections.
The AWaRe classification categorizes antibiotics into three groups based on their efficacy and importance in treating specific infections. By understanding and utilizing this classification, prescribers can make informed decisions when it comes to selecting antibiotics. The primary goal is to promote rational antibiotic use, ensuring that the right antibiotics are prescribed for the right infections, minimizing the risk of resistance, and preserving the effectiveness of these life-saving drugs for future generations.
Photo credit: Ms. S. M. Sabrina Yesmin, Assistant Director, DGDA
During the awareness program, Major General Mohammad Yousuf, Director General of DGDA, inaugurated the AWaRe poster publication, which highlights the key principles of the classification system. The poster, endorsed by the WHO, serves as a valuable resource for physicians, aiding them in choosing the most appropriate antibiotics for their patients. By adhering to the AWaRe recommendations, prescribers can prioritize the use of antibiotics that are effective, easily accessible, and less likely to contribute to resistance (Access group). Simultaneously, the classification discourages the unnecessary use of last-resort antibiotics, reserving them for severe infections to combat resistance (Reserve group). The program stressed the significance of accurate diagnosis before prescribing antimicrobial drugs. Through accurate diagnosis, healthcare professionals can ensure that antibiotics are administered when truly needed, avoiding overuse and misuse. By doing so, they play a crucial role in safeguarding public health and contributing to the global fight against antibiotic resistance.
The AWaRe classification also supports antibiotic stewardship programs, which aim to optimize antibiotic use and minimize resistance. By providing a standardized approach to antibiotic selection, the AWaRe classification facilitates coordination and communication among healthcare providers, pharmacists, and policymakers. This poster improved antibiotic stewardship practices and ensured the judicious use of antibiotics throughout the healthcare system.
The DGDA's efforts to raise awareness about the WHO AWaRe classification in Chittagong and distribute the AWaRe poster among physicians mark an important step toward combatting antibiotic resistance. By equipping prescribers with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions, the DGDA is empowering healthcare professionals to play a pivotal role in preserving the effectiveness of antibiotics and protecting public health.
In conclusion, the WHO AWaRe classification system serves as a global standard for rational antibiotic use. With the support of the DGDA in the inauguration of the AWaRe poster, physicians in Chittagong are now equipped to prioritize antibiotics effectively, combat resistance, and contribute to the responsible use of these vital drugs. By working together, healthcare professionals can play a significant role in ensuring a healthier future for all.
