Antibiotics Overuse in Wardha, India: A Cross-Sectional Survey on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Public Health Implications of Self-Medication

Objectives

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a growing public health crisis driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. India, a major consumer of antibiotics, faces greater risks due to unregulated Over-the-Counter (OTC) sales and inadequate awareness. This study aimed to identify factors contributing to antibiotic misuse among adults in Wardha to inform targeted interventions.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Wardha from January to June 2024. Using systematic sampling, 400 adults (≥18 years) were recruited. A structured questionnaire collected information on demographics, history of antibiotic use, self-reported practices, and basic knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotics. Descriptive statistics were applied for analysis.

Results

The findings revealed critical knowledge gaps and unsafe practices. Among respondents, 60% reported antibiotic use in the past year, of whom 30% admitted self-medication without prescription. Premature discontinuation of antibiotics was highly prevalent, reported by 60% of participants, while only 40% consistently completed treatment. Misconceptions were widespread: 70% failed to recognize that antibiotics do not treat viral infections, and half was unaware of the role of overuse in resistance. OTC access was significant, with 25% obtaining antibiotics directly from pharmacies without prescriptions.

Conclusion

The study highlights alarmingly high rates of antibiotic misuse among the adult population in Wardha, largely due to poor awareness and easy OTC availability. Strict enforcement of prescription regulations, focused health education campaigns, and comprehensive antimicrobial stewardship programs are urgently needed to curb misuse and mitigate the threat of AMR.