Patients' Attitude and Behavior Toward Antibiotic Self-medication for Toothache

Abstract

Background: Self-medication with antibiotics for dental pain, particularly in developing countries, is associated with easy access to these medications and limited patient awareness of adverse effects. This behavior may contribute to antimicrobial resistance and potential complications. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate patients’ attitudes toward antibiotic self-medication for dental pain and to estimate the prevalence of this behavior. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 380 patients aged > 18 years who attended the Dental School of Zahedan, southeast Iran, in 2024. Data were collected using a self-report questionnaire comprising 3 sections: demographic information, attitudes toward antibiotic self-medication, and the prevalence of antibiotic self-medication. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24, descriptive statistics, and the chi-square test, with a significance level of 0.05. Results: The mean attitude score was 27.52 ± 5.12, corresponding to a moderate level in 69.5% of participants. Overall, 71.3% of patients had attempted antibiotic self-medication at least once. Self-medication on more than one occasion was reported in 51.8% of cases. Attitudes differed significantly according to sex, age, education, income, and insurance history (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The moderate patient attitudes and the high prevalence of antibiotic self-medication in the studied sample emphasize the need for educational interventions and policy measures to increase public awareness and prevent indiscriminate access to antibiotics. Regular educational programs for patients and physicians, along with stricter regulations on antibiotic dispensing, are recommended.