Self-Medication Practices with Antibiotics Among the General Population: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Keywords:
Antibiotics, Self-medication, Antimicrobial resistance, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Cross-sectional study.Abstract
Background: Antibiotics are essential in the treatment of bacterial infections; however, their misuse, particularly through self-medication, poses a significant global public health challenge. Inappropriate use contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), treatment failure, and increased healthcare burden. Young adults are especially prone to self-medication due to convenience and lack of awareness.
Aim: To assess self-medication practices with antibiotics among individuals aged 18–35 years and evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices using a questionnaire-based approach.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over three months among 500 participants aged 18–35 years selected through convenience sampling. A structured and pre-validated questionnaire assessed demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antibiotic use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, with a p-value <0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Self-medication with antibiotics was reported by 75.6% of participants. A large proportion (87.2%) lacked awareness about appropriate antibiotic use and AMR. Misconceptions were common, with 62% believing antibiotics are effective against viral infections. Common sources of antibiotics included pharmacies without prescription (58.2%) and leftover medications (29.1%). Convenience (47.6%) and prior experience (31.7%) were major reasons for self-medication. A significant association was found between education level and self-medication practices (p < 0.001), whereas gender showed no significant association.
Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of antibiotic self-medication among young adults, coupled with poor knowledge and inappropriate practices. There is an urgent need for public education, stricter enforcement of prescription regulations, and awareness programs to promote rational antibiotic use and combat antimicrobial resistance.
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