Assessment of self-medication of antibiotics in a Jordanian population

Med Princ Pract. 2009;18(1):21-5. doi: 10.1159/000163041. Epub 2008 Dec 4.

Abstract

Objective: To assess the extent of self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) in a Jordanian population, and to evaluate the sociodemographic factors affecting this behaviour.

Subjects and methods: Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 477 patients aged 16-65 years attending the Department of Dentistry, University of Jordan Hospital. Socio-demographic data were collected and interviewees were asked about their SMA behaviour during the last 6 months, the reasons and motives for this behaviour, and the source and dose of the antibiotics were noted.

Results: The prevalence rate of SMA in the sample during the 6 months preceding the interview was 40.7% (194/477). Patients aged 36-55 years and those in the middle-class income group were most likely to perform SMA. SMA was mainly for sore throats, common colds and dental infections, and community pharmacies were the major source (104, 53.6% cases). Amoxicillin was the most commonly used antibiotic, and only 73 (37.6%) patients followed the correct dosage guidelines. Previous experience with similar illness and saving time were the most common reasons for SMA. Ninety-four (19.7%) patients admitted that they consulted another physician to obtain antibiotics when their first physician did not prescribe any.

Conclusion: The findings showed that SMA was a frequent practice among Jordanians, signifying the need for an educational campaign on the proper use of antibiotics in this population.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Age Distribution
  • Aged
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / classification
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Dentistry
  • Drug Utilization / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Hospitals
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Jordan
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Self Medication / statistics & numerical data*
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents