The current study targets on the evaluation of the patient’s attitude and knowledge toward antibiotic self-medication. A questionnaire was prepared to assess the patient’s knowledge and use of herbal products and dietary supplements. The patient survey was conducted at primary health care centers in Coimbatore district (Tamil Nadu). A cross-sectional study was piloted on a sample of 500 personals in the year of 2013. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires with open-ended items. Self-medication with antibiotics was reported by 45.23% during the last 6 months. Gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain was the main indication for self-medication with antibiotics (23.80%) as well as respiratory tract and skin associated infections. The choice of self-medication was based on medical knowledge and non-physician advice (60.38%) or on a previous account by a physician for self and others with similar indication (49.35%). Most of the subjects aspire on further more guidance regarding the usage of antibiotic. The continuing medical education programs and drug information sources about rational use of antibiotics use must be made available for the patient’s and the awareness about the antibiotics misuse should be given to the patients. In addition, clearly defined knowledge of antibiotics use can help to design safer pharmacological regimens to the individual patients for the better therapeutic outcome.
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