Overuse of antibiotics in Saudi children with upper respiratory infection and diarrhea

Abstract

Background: The growth of antibiotic-resistant bacteria has been accelerated in recent decades as a result of antibiotic abuse and misuse. The goal of the current study was to evaluate the misuse of pediatric antibiotics in Northern Saudi Arabia concerning upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and diarrhea. Methodology: Between May and August 2022, 400 residents of Hail, Northern Saudi Arabia, participated in this community-based descriptive survey. Independent of their age, social position, educational attainment, or monthly income, the participants were picked at random. Results: Approximately 56.7% of fathers and 63% of mothers had engaged in antibiotic abuse. Most frequently, age between 35 and 45 years was implicated in antibiotic overuse 41.6%, followed by age between 25 and 35 years 36%. University graduates made up the majority of antibiotic misusers 63.7%, whereas those with secondary and primary educations made up 28.7% and 7.6%, respectively. Conclusion: In Northern Saudi Arabia, overuse of antibiotics is common, particularly among fathers' parents. Community-based educational initiatives on antibiotic abuse are necessary for addition to wristband laws to minimize antibiotic overuse in Northern Saudi Arabia.