Knowledge, attitude and pattern of antibiotic utilization among Libyan University students in Zawia

Abstract

Introduction: The antimicrobial agents have saved human from several infectious disease. However, bacteria have capability to develop to become resistant to antibiotics and incorrect use of antibiotics is the main determinants of development of antimicrobial resistance which is a public health issue. Attention on medical students and community people should be emphasized by both education and promotion. Thus, this study was aimed to assess the present knowledge, attitude and behavior of Libyan university students regarding antibiotic use and misuse. Methods: Sample size of 150 students attending faculty of pharmacy of university of Zawia, Libya was participated. The procedure was divided into five groups according to their grades. All the involved participants completed a health questionnaire about their utilization and mal utilization of antibiotics. Data was collected over a period of two months during July and August 1029. Results: The evaluated data was from 250 students; 132 were females and 21 were males (7.3 : 1.0). 88.0% use antibiotics to cure bacterial infection while 15.3% use it to cure viral infection. 38.0% never use antibiotics to treat respiratory tract infections such as common cold, 34.0% sometimes and 26.0% always. In addition, 61.0% stopped using antibiotic based on physician's instruction while 8.0% when symptoms decreased. Regarding their attitude toward antibiotic misuse, 82.0% agreed that it is necessary to get more education and promotion about pattern of antibiotic use and 73.0% agreed to establish courses on antibiotic rationale use. Conclusion: Students at medical university of Zawia have a considerable knowledge and a great perspective on antibiotics utilization. However, there is still a need for more additional educational programs on antibiotic utilization and mal utilization targeted university students and community people in Libya.