In the Chinese medical field, since the economic benefits from Intravenous (I.V.) drugs are much greater than from oral medication, I.V. drugs are overused. China has become the country that consumes the largest amount of IV drugs in the world. Experts have warned about the side effects of over usage.
According to China’s official site, statistics show that, in 2011, China consumed over 10 trillion bottles of I.V. drugs. That is the equivalent to eight bottles per person and is much higher than the international average of 2.5 to 3.3. One of the key contributing factors is that patients tend to rely heavily on I.V. drugs. In additon, it is due to the fact that hospitals, doctors, and drug companies receive a higher economic return on I.V. drugs.
Reports indicate that over 390,000 people die from improper use of I.V. drugs each year. Among those, 200,000 die from allergic reactions after I.V. treatment. Estimates are that at least 100,000 people have died after receiving I.V. treatment.
Experts warned that overuse of I.V. drugs will cause harm to the human body and that the body will develop a resistance to drugs.
Source:
Radio Free Asia, September 8, 2013
http://www.rfa.org/mandarin/Xinwen/11-09082013170303.html
Xinhua, September 8, 2013
http://www.hb.xinhuanet.com/2013-09/08/c_117277436.htm