Journal of Bioequivalence & Bioavailability

Abstract

Survey of Non-Prescribed Use of Antibiotics in Respiratory Tract Infections and Role of Community Pharmacists to Enlighten the Society

Zehra Ashraf, Ranaa Amjad, Esha Idrees, Tuba Babar, Shanza Sultan and Sualiha Shafaq

Objectives: The goal of this study was to identify the conditions in which patients self-administer antibiotics frequently .This survey based study is also aimed to reduce unnecessary self-medication particularly antibiotics among the large section of people and also to highlight the role of the community pharmacist to curb this menace.
Design: This report is based on a survey conducted at different parts of Karachi.
Main outcome measures: Self-medications of Antibiotic for cold, respiratory tract infections.
Result and discussion: This community based survey was aimed to study the non-prescribed use of antibiotics in Karachi (Pakistan). The study showed that the self-medication of antibiotics is common in Upper Respiratory Tract Infections, which are generally caused by viruses. According to the survey reports more than 70% of antibiotics are purchased privately without a prescription due to many reasons. It is the prime role of community pharmacy to aware the public by different ways which includes awareness programs through print and electronic media, arranging seminars, walks, workshops to promote health related information to general public.