Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Antibiotic Use and Self- Medication in MBBS Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Antibiotic misuse and self-medication contribute significantly to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a major global health threat. Medical students, despite their education, often engage in self- medication with antibiotics, highlighting a concerning gap between knowledge and practice. Aim: The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding antibiotic use and self-medication among MBBS students using a cross-sectional study method. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among MBBS students in Gujarat. Data were collected via Google Forms and analyzed using Excel 2021. A chi- square test was performed to analyze gender-based differences in self-medication behavior. Results: Among 210 respondents, 51.4% reported self-medicating with antibiotics. Knowledge levels were high, with over 90% correctly identifying antibiotics and understanding AMR. However, 64.3% obtained antibiotics without prescriptions, and 41% showed reluctance to attend AMR awareness programs. The chi-square test revealed no significant association between gender and self-medication behavior (p = 1.0). Conclusion: Despite high awareness, self-medication remains prevalent among MBBS students, demonstrating a gap between knowledge and responsible behavior. Strengthening pharmacy regulations, integrating behavioral interventions into medical curricula, and promoting responsible antibiotic use are crucial to addressing this issue.