Kathmandu: The Nepali government has issued a directive to consumers and stakeholders cautioning against the use of 103 specific types of antibiotics. Narayan Prasad Dhakal, the Director General of the Department of Drug Administration (DDA), explained that this directive aims to minimize, prevent, and control the use of these antibiotic drugs, which are not recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The DDA Director General emphasized that there is no rational basis for using these particular antibiotics, and the WHO has published a list of 103 types of antibiotics that should be avoided. As a result, the DDA will neither register these drugs nor grant permission for their use.

Despite this directive, it has been reported that 13 out of the 103 antibiotic drugs have been registered in Nepal. The DDA has prepared a national plan of action to reduce illness rates, mortality rates, and economic consequences associated with antibiotic resistance. This plan aligns with the global action plan on antibiotic resistance and is currently awaiting final approval.

In line with the recommendations of the Drugs Advisory Committee, the DDA Director General indicated that directives have been issued to relevant agencies to prevent the registration, renewal of registration, import, and use of these antibiotics in Nepal. This measure is part of an effort to combat antibiotic resistance and promote the responsible use of antibiotics in healthcare.