AI Article Synopsis
- A study in Punjab, Pakistan assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotics use among 2106 participants, revealing significant misconceptions about their effectiveness against viral infections.* -
- Results showed that 35.4% believed antibiotics could treat viruses, 47.5% thought they were effective for colds and flu, and almost 60% had self-medicated without a prescription, indicating a widespread issue with improper antibiotic use.* -
- The findings suggest a strong need for improved health education and regulation of antibiotic sales in pharmacies to combat the high rates of self-medication and misinformation.*
Article Abstract
Objectives: Public awareness about antibiotics use is critical in antimicrobial resistance. We evaluated knowledge, attitudes, and practices among the general population of Punjab, Pakistan in this cross-sectional study.
Methods: We used a 50-item questionnaire to collect information on participant demographics, knowledge, and attitudes about antibiotics use and to evaluate the practices of taking antibiotics without a doctor's prescription.
Results: Of the 2106 participants who completed surveys, 35.4% thought antibiotics could cure viral infections; 47.5% believed they are effective against cold and flu. Nearly 60% percent of respondents had self-medicated with antibiotics. Married people (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.285, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.004-1.643 p = 0.046), higher antibiotics use knowledge (AOR = 0.818, 95% CI: 0.674-0.993 p = 0.042), ever purchased antibiotics without a physician's prescription (AOR = 2.024 95% CI: 1.674-2.457 p ≤ 0.001) and storing antibiotics at home (AOR = 0.801 95% CI: 0.652-0.985 p = 0.035) were significantly associated with self-medication practices.
Conclusions: A high proportion of inappropriate antibiotics use exists among the general population of Punjab. Interventions are needed to improve health literacy and supervise antibiotics sales in retail pharmacies.
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| http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14787210.2021.1823216 | DOI Listing |
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