Prevalence of antibiotic misuse in cases of pneumonia and diarrhea in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Antibiotic misuse is a major public health issue with long-term repercussions. Objective: The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the effects of pneumonia and diarrhea, with an emphasis on antibiotic misuse. Methodology: This study included 410 participants (217 fathers and 193 mothers), of whom 239 purchased antibiotics for their children without a prescription, whereas 171 had a prescription or were unsure if one was required. Results: Antibiotics were used incorrectly by 58.1% of respondents. About 51.2% of participants said they were taking two antibiotics at the same time. Around 30% of people admitted to using antibiotics inefficiently. The most prevalent reason for use was “viral and bacterial,” followed by “viral,” and then “bacterial,” with 35%, 21%, and 20%, respectively. In addition, 22.4% of patients have used antibiotics for an unknown reason. Conclusion: Saudi parents of children with pneumonia and diarrhea abuse antibiotics. Saudi legislation banning medications without a prescription has helped reduce antibiotic abuse, but more community-based education and awareness are needed.

Pattern of Antibiotic Use Among Children With Acute Respiratory Infections in Saudi Arabia: Clinical Assessment

“…The primary rationale for antibiotic intake was due to both "viral and bacterial" causes (35%), followed by just "viral" (21%), and solely "bacterial" (20%) reasons. Furthermore, a notable 22.4% of patients could not specify the reason for their antibiotic consumption [ 31 ].…”

Point prevalence survey of antibiotics use among hospitalised neonates and children in Saudi Arabia: findings and implications

“…Similarly, literature indicated that children are at a greater risk of developing bacterial infections, hence antibiotics are frequently prescribed and are considered as one of the common drugs prescribed to neonates and children (Woll et al, 2018 ; Youngster et al, 2017 ). One study conducted in Saudi Arabia found that 58.1% of children were inappropriately using antibiotics, 58.3% were using antibiotics without a prescription, and 51.2% were using two antibiotics at the same time (Almughais et al, 2023 ). Apart from that, Saudi Arabia serves as a focal point for the annual pilgrimage of approximately 2–3 million pilgrims for Hajj and Umrah (Taibah et al, 2020 ).…”