L’Automédication aux Antibiotiques

Abstract

Self-medication has become an increasingly dangerous trend. While tolerated for certain medications, self-medication involving antibiotics seriously jeopardize public health systems. This thesis aims to study the habits of 221 Algerian participants regarding self-medication with antibiotics and to identify the factors influencing this practice. Our survey reveals that 62% of participants use antibiotics without a prescription, with the majority being women. Adults aged 29 to 38, public sector employees, and healthcare professionals are the most affected. Self-medication rates do not appear to be influenced by the participants’ field of study or their health status. Amoxicillin is the most commonly used antibiotic in this context, mainly for symptoms that have previously been treated with the same antibiotic, such as sorethroats, which were among the most frequently reported. As for the pharmacist’s role, only 23% of respondents were denied the sale of an antibiotic, and only a minority were offered an alternative. These results highlight the urgent need for effective awareness campaigns on the proper use of antibiotics