Knowledge, Attitude And Practice Of Community Pharmacists In Relation To Dispensing Antibiotics Without Prescription

Abstract

Background: Dispensing antibiotics (DA) without prescription is a widesparead practice, especially in developing countries, contributing to antibiotic resistance. Community pharmacists play a significant role in promoting rational use of antibiotics by refraining from DA without prescription, and providing drug information to patients. This study aimed to evaluate community pharmacists’ knowledge, attitude and practice, and to assess the factors behind DA without prescription. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March 2023 among random sample of community pharmacists in KSA. Online semi-structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The association between dependent and independent variables was assessed using Chi-square test; a P-value less than 0.05 were considered significant. Results: Of the 1217 pharmacists who participated, the majority were female (n = 645, 53%). Most pharmacists have a bachelor degree (n = 1026, 84%) and less than 5 years’ experience (n = 718, 59%). Notably, the majority of community pharmacists have good knowledge (n = 735, 61.7%), which is significantly associated with years of experience (P < 0.00). More than half (n = 623, 52.2%) of the pharmacists have above average score of practice. Nearly all the pharmacists who participated have a positive attitude in relation to DA without prescription (n = 1204, 98.9%). More than half of the pharmacists were DA without prescription for tonsillitis (n = 817, 67%), wound infection (n = 766, 62.9%), and urinary tract infection (n = 664, 54%[1]). The leading factor behind DA without prescription was the low socioeconomic status of the patients (n = 624, 51%). Additionally, 47% of the pharmacists (n = 572) thought that they were knowledgeable enough to DA without prescription. Conclusion: Despite their positive attitude and average level of knowledge regarding DA without prescription, community pharmacists frequently are DA without prescription for tonsillitis. Low patients’ socioeconomic status was the leading factor behind DA without prescription. Accordingly, extensive work from health authorities to improve the accessibility and affordability of the health system as well as the development of an antibiotic stewardship program are required to diminish DA without prescription.