Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Probiotics Among Pharmacists in Tripoli, Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study

Probiotics have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits, particularly in gastrointestinal and immune-related conditions. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and prescribing practices of pharmacists in Libya regarding probiotics. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 135 participants, including pharmacists, using a self-designed questionnaire and face-to-face interviews for data collection. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-Square tests to examine associations between demographic variables and probiotic-related knowledge, attitude, and practices using IBM SPSS Statistics version 24. Descriptive statistics was used. P values less than 0.05 were considered to be significant. The analysis revealed significant associations between demographic factors and knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding probiotics. Educational level was strongly associated with nearly all knowledge aspects (e.g., familiarity, understanding, uses, microorganisms, and side effects of probiotics; p < 0.001) and practice-related variables (e.g., conditions for use, forms recommended; p < 0.001). Age significantly influenced understanding, uses, microorganisms, side effects of probiotics (p < 0.05), and attitudes toward recommending probiotics (p < 0.001). Years of experience and occupation were also significant predictors of knowledge and attitudes, particularly regarding sources of information and recommendations (p < 0.05). Gender, however, showed no significant associations with KAP variables (p > 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of education, age, professional experience, and occupation in shaping KAP related to probiotics. In conclusion, educational level, age, years of experience, and occupation significantly influence knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding probiotics, with education being the strongest predictor. These findings emphasize the need for targeted education and training, especially for those with lower education or limited experience, to enhance probiotic-related KAP. Further research is recommended to inform strategies for diverse populations