Patterns, Knowledge and Attitudes of Irrational Antibiotic Use in the Saudi Community

Background: Antibiotics are one of the most commonly sold drugs without prescription in the Eastern countries because there is no policy to regulate antibiotics use and they are available over the counter. Irrational use of antibiotics leads to unwanted side effects, increase admissions, cost, and increase antimicrobial resistance. Antimicrobial resistance on the other hand considered a global problem in the community as well as in hospitals. This study thought to evaluate the current patterns of use, knowledge and attitudes of irrational use of antibiotics among Saudi population. Uncovering related factors are important in order to intervene effectively. Methods: A convenience sample of 427 participants was interviewed from the community in a semi structured interview. A descriptive comparative cross sectional design was used to investigate patterns, knowledge and attitudes of irrational antibiotic use. The questionnaire included demographics, patterns, knowledge and attitudes of antibiotic use. The questionnaire was developed by the investigator and was piloted and tested for validity and reliability. Results: Participants in this study were young, university graduates, 59% females, and 55% were married. Results showed inappropriate use of antibiotics for self and family throughout the year. Half of participants based their antibiotic use on pharmacist, friend’s advice and previous use. Majority does not read the antibiotics’ instructions and are not aware of possible side effects, or their own allergy to such antibiotic. In addition there was a general unsatisfactory level of knowledge regarding antibiotics use. Women reported statistical significant higher level of knowledge then men. Further, attitude toward antibiotic use wasn’t that instructive. Conclusion and Recommendations: As reflected from young age and highly educated sample in the current study, the low level of knowledge and inappropriate pattern regarding antibiotic use constitute a true problem in the community. A number of implications flow from this study, education alone could not be enough to change behavior. There is a basic need to address the attitudes and belief to get benefits of changing a pattern or behavior. To bridge the gap between knowledge and attitude toward antibiotic use, a culturally aware health education campaigns should reach all the Saudi community. Further, establishing a medical policy to regulate antibiotic use is of great importance. Keywords: Antibiotic, Irrational, Pattern, Knowledge, Attitude