Community Pharmacist Knowledge and Practices on Antibiotics (Otc): An Observational Study

Objectives: Creating awareness among community pharmacist on knowledge and practices related to antibiotic dispensing. Materials and Methodology: It is an observational study conducted among the community pharmacist in the Tiruvannamalai, Kallakkurichi, Cuddalore districts and its surrounding areas. The study was conducted for a period of 5 months. The study was divided into 2 phases. In the first phase (Nov 2024 to Dec 2024), a random sampling was employed and relevant information’s were collected from the subject. By using self-administered Questionnaire and provide information about antibiotics. In phase 2 (Dec 2024 to Jan 2025), simulated client study was performed. Result and Discussion: The study identified important factors contributing towards the dispensing of ABs without prescriptions by the community pharmacist of Tiruvannamalai, Kallakkurichi, Cuddalore districts and its surrounding areas. The proportion of dispensing antibiotic without a prescription for minor bacterial and viral infections was studied. At the community level the knowledge of pharmacists was found to be poor, contributing towards the irrational dispensing of ABs without prescription. Among the socio demographic factors; gender, age, experience and employment status are associated with the dispensing pattern of ABs for minor infections. Similarly, the qualification of pharmacists was found to be associated with the knowledge on antibiotics. Conclusion: Development of educational and behavioural interventions, dispensing guidelines and strengthening the policies are to be emphasized to combat the irrational practice of dispensing ABs without physician prescription.