UNDERSTANDING OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ABOUT ANTIBIOTIC USE AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS AND GENERAL PUBLIC

Antibiotics are among the most widely used class of drugs in hospitals, and they are really important to be used optimally otherwise emerging resistant pathogens will interfere with treatment outcomes. The study was conducted for a period of six months. An Institutional and community based cross-sectional and prospective study. Out of 135 participants, 66(48.9%) were males and 69(51.1%) were females. Analysis of knowledge about antibiotics and attitude towards it among age group (26-33) and (34-42) showed 50-50 results, indicating more awareness about antibiotic is necessary for this age group people. More number of participants were from pharmacy faculty which were 60 (44.4%). Students were participated in more number which was 105 (77.8%) . Survey on knowledge and attitude of participants based on gender, we found both more good knowledge(72.2%) as well as more positive attitude(63.6%) in male. Pharmacy students had more good knowledge (85%) and positive attitude (70%). Students had more good knowledge (68.6%) and positive attitude (57.1%). Age group of 18-25 years was found to have more good knowledge (76.7%) and positive attitude (70%) regarding antibiotics .The intended correct response to knowledge related questions was given correctly by students. Attitude towards usage of antibiotics is clearer among students of medical background. However, students show better attitude regarding antibiotic usage. Students and service people showed good understanding regarding antibiotic usages. Medical students showed better understanding, more good knowledge; as the mean value for each domain was slightly higher for medical background students.