J Infect Dev Ctries. 2024 Dec 31;18(12.1):S310-S317. doi: 10.3855/jidc.19595.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The global healthcare system faced unparalleled challenges during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, potentially reshaping antibiotic usage trends. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and observations of community pharmacists concerning antibiotic utilization during and after the pandemic; and offer crucial insights into its impact on antibiotic usage patterns and infection dynamics.
METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional study involved 162 community pharmacists in Northern Cyprus. Data were gathered via a structured survey, including pharmacist demographics, antibiotic knowledge, perceptions of antibiotic resistance, and observations on antibiotic misuse during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were analyzed by biostatistical methods.
RESULTS: Over 90% of pharmacists demonstrated high awareness of antibiotic overuse and resistance. The average antibiotic use knowledge score was 5.09/7. The majority expressed interest in further education (85.2%) and participation in campaigns (96.9%) to promote appropriate antibiotic use. Notably, 87.7% of participants observed an increase in respiratory infections post pandemic, and 45.7% reported administering more antibiotics, reflecting heightened demand. Furthermore, 63.6% noted increased demand for unprescribed antibiotics, while 45.7% expressed concerns about potential neglect of the antibiotic resistance issue as a consequence of the pandemic.
CONCLUSIONS: The study highlights critical changes in antibiotic dispensing patterns among community pharmacists during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The results here underscore the pivotal role of pharmacists in antibiotic stewardship, advocating for ongoing education, and stricter prescription regulations to optimize antibiotic use and combat resistance.
PMID:39863948 | DOI:10.3855/jidc.19595
