Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is propagated by irrational use of antibiotics by healthcare practitioners and the uninformed public. This study assessed a select cohort of 504 urban Indians for their knowledge, awareness and practice of antibiotic use and AMR. Forty seven per cent were unaware of the differences between over-the-counter drugs and antibiotics. One in four believes that dose-skipping does not contribute to AMR. One in ten tends to self-medicate. One in five bought medicines without prescription or started an antibiotic course by calling a doctor. Our results mandate educational campaigns, stewardship and surveillance at the national level for prudent antimicrobial use in the Indian community.
Keywords
Antibiotic Resistance, Attitude, Community, Knowledge, Practice.
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