Mother's knowledge about antibiotic and rale of self-prescription

ABSTRACT

Antibiotic use is common and unrestricted in many developing countries. To explore knowledge of mothers about antibiotic regarding its indication, its side effects and to study some behavioral aspects associated with its usage. Mothers attending outpatient clinic in Ain Shams University Pediatric Hospital were subjected to interviewing questionnaire which contains different items aimed to be explored. 577 mothers were interviewed with different educational levels. Regarding indication of antibiotic, 86% of mothers agreed to be given in case of tonsillitis and 15% in coryza. The most mentioned side effect was general weakness [77%]. Regarding some behaviors associated with usage of antibiotic, 21% of mother keep the drug after usage to be reused, also 24% of them prescribe the drug to their children compared to 10% who seek pharmacist advice, further results will be discussed