Kannur: As part of its Operation AMRITH (Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health), the state drug control department has intensified its inspections at medical stores and pharmacies to prevent the overuse of antibiotics. 

Following inspections at Kannur and Kasaragod districts, the officials served notices to 15 medicine stores for over-the-counter (OTC) sales. Furthermore, the licence of one of the shops was revoked.  

The public can also report any pharmacies selling antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. Furthermore, it is also mandatory that pharmacies keep accurate records of antibiotic sales and display a poster saying that 'antibiotics are not sold here without doctor's prescriptions.' 

The special squad assigned by the drug control department conducted the inspections. Through the initiative, the state health department is aiming to end over-the-counter antibiotic use by 2024.