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Gacheri J, Hamilton KA, Munywoki P, Wakahiu S, Kiambi K, Fèvre EM, Oluka MN, Guantai EM, Moodley A, Muloi DM. Antibiotic prescribing practices in community and clinical settings during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nairobi, Kenya. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003046. [PMID: 38662675 PMCID: PMC11045065 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted healthcare systems, including antibiotic use practices. We present data on patterns of antibiotic dispensing and use in community and hospital settings respectively in Nairobi, Kenya during the pandemic. We conducted interviews with 243 pharmacies in Nairobi using a standardised questionnaire from November to December 2021. The data collected included demographic characteristics, antibiotic customers, types of antibiotics sold, and antibiotic prescribing practices. Additionally, we retrospectively reviewed health records for 992 and 738 patients admitted in COVID-19 and general wards at two large inpatient hospitals between April 2020 and May 2021, and January 2019 to October 2021, respectively. Demographic, utilisation of laboratory services, treatment, clinical, and outcome data were collected using a modified Global WHO Point Prevalence Surveys (Global-PPS) tool. Almost all pharmacies (91.4%) served customers suspected of having COVID-19 with a mean weekly number of 15.6 customers. All pharmacies dispensed antibiotics, mainly azithromycin and beta lactams to suspected COVID-19 infected customers. 83.4% of hospitalised COVID-19 patients received at least one antibiotic at some point during their hospitalisation, which was significantly higher than the 53.8% in general ward patients (p<0.001). Similarly, the average number of antibiotics administered to COVID-19 patients was higher than that of patients in the general ward (1.74 vs 0.9). Azithromycin and ceftriaxone were the most commonly used antibiotics in COVID-19 patients compared to ceftriaxone and metronidazole in the general wards. Only 2% of antibiotic prescriptions for COVID-19 patients were supported by microbiological investigations, which was consistent with the proportion of 6.8% among the general ward population. Antibiotics were commonly prescribed to customers and patients suspected of having COVID-19 either in community pharmacies or in hospital, without a prescription or laboratory diagnosis. These findings emphasize the crucial role of antibiotic stewardship, particularly in community pharmacies, in the context of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- June Gacheri
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Katie A. Hamilton
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Karen Kiambi
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eric M. Fèvre
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret N. Oluka
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eric M. Guantai
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Arshnee Moodley
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Dishon M. Muloi
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Massele A, Rogers AM, Gabriel D, Mayanda A, Magoma S, Cook A, Chigome A, Lorenzetti G, Meyer JC, Moore CE, Godman B, Minzi O. A Narrative Review of Recent Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Ambulatory Care in Tanzania: Findings and Implications. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2195. [PMID: 38138298 PMCID: PMC10745081 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: There are concerns with the current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care in Tanzania, including both the public and private sectors. These concerns need to be addressed as part of the national action plan (NAP) of Tanzania to reduce rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates. Issues and concerns include high rates of prescribing of antibiotics for essentially self-limiting conditions. Consequently, there is a need to address this. As a result, the aims of this narrative review were to comprehensively summarize antibiotic utilization patterns particularly in ambulatory care and their rationale in Tanzania and to suggest ways forward to improve future prescribing practices. Materials and Methods: We undertook a narrative review of recently published studies and subsequently documented potential activities to improve future prescribing practices. Potential activities included instigating quality indicators and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Results: Published studies have shown that antibiotics are being excessively prescribed in ambulatory care in Tanzania, in up to 95% to 96.3% of presenting cases depending on the sector. This is despite concerns with their appropriateness. High rates of antibiotic prescribing are not helped by variable adherence to current treatment guidelines. There have also been concerns with extensive prescribing of 'Watch' antibiotics in the private sector. Overall, the majority of antibiotics prescribed across the sectors, albeit inappropriately, were typically from the 'Access' group of antibiotics in the AWaRe (Access/Watch/Reserve) classification rather than 'Watch' antibiotics to limit AMR. The inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics in ambulatory care is linked to current knowledge regarding antibiotics, AMR, and ASPs among both prescribers and patients. Recommended activities for the future include improved education for all groups, the instigation of updated quality indicators, and the regular monitoring of prescribing practices against agreed-upon guidelines and indicators. Education for healthcare professionals on ASPs should start at undergraduate level and continue post qualification. Community advocacy on the rational use of antibiotics should also include social media activities to dispel misinformation. Conclusion: The quality of current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care is sub-optimal in Tanzania. This needs to be urgently addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Massele
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania
| | - Anastasia Martin Rogers
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Deogratias Gabriel
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Ashura Mayanda
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Sarah Magoma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Dodoma, Dodoma P.O. Box 582, Tanzania;
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Audrey Chigome
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Catrin E. Moore
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Omary Minzi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65013, Tanzania;
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Arboleda Forero V, Cruzate Hernández JP, Yepes Restrepo M, Higuita-Gutiérrez LF. Antibiotic Self-Medication Patterns and Associated Factors in the Context of COVID-19, Medellín, Colombia: A Survey Based Cross Sectional Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:3057-3066. [PMID: 38027083 PMCID: PMC10680488 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s434030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the frequency of self-medication with antibiotics and its associated factors in Medellín, Colombia. Methods A descriptive study was conducted on 778 individuals surveyed regarding sociodemographic characteristics, self-medication with antibiotics, reasons for using these drugs, and types of antibiotics used. The analysis was performed in SPSS using absolute and relative frequencies with their corresponding confidence intervals, chi-square test, and logistic regression. Results The frequency of self-medication with antibiotics was 46% (95% CI 42.5-49.5), with 47.4% (95% CI 42.2-52.5) of the population using antibiotics without medical prescription for flu-like symptoms related to COVID-19. Amoxicillin (33.7%), azithromycin (10.9%), and cephalexin (4.7%) were the most used antibiotics. The main factors associated with self-medication were age group, zone of residence, and lack of information on the appropriate use of these medications. Conclusion The city exhibits a high frequency of self-medication with antibiotics, predominantly in conditions where they are ineffective, such as flu-like symptoms related to COVID-19. These findings highlight the contribution of the COVID-19 pandemic to bacterial resistance through self-medication and underscore the need to implement targeted actions to control the use of these medications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutiérrez
- School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- School of Medicine, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellín, Colombia
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Chigome A, Ramdas N, Skosana P, Cook A, Schellack N, Campbell S, Lorenzetti G, Saleem Z, Godman B, Meyer JC. A Narrative Review of Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Primary Care Settings in South Africa and Potential Ways Forward to Reduce Antimicrobial Resistance. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1540. [PMID: 37887241 PMCID: PMC10604704 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12101540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There are concerns with the current prescribing of antibiotics in both the private and public primary care settings in South Africa. These concerns need to be addressed going forward to reduce rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates in South Africa. Concerns include adherence to current prescribing guidelines. Consequently, there is a need to comprehensively summarise current antibiotic utilization patterns from published studies as well as potential activities to improve prescribing, including indicators and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Published studies showed that there was an appreciable prescribing of antibiotics for patients with acute respiratory infections, i.e., 52.9% to 78% or more across the sectors. However, this was not universal, with appreciable adherence to prescribing guidelines in community health centres. Encouragingly, the majority of antibiotics prescribed, albeit often inappropriately, were from the 'Access' group of antibiotics in the AWaRe (Access/Watch/Reserve) classification rather than 'Watch' antibiotics to limit AMR. Inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics in primary care is not helped by concerns with current knowledge regarding antibiotics, AMR and ASPs among prescribers and patients in primary care. This needs to be addressed going forward. However, studies have shown it is crucial for prescribers to use a language that patients understand when discussing key aspects to enhance appropriate antibiotic use. Recommended activities for the future include improved education for all groups as well as regularly monitoring prescribing against agreed-upon guidelines and indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Chigome
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Nishana Ramdas
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Phumzile Skosana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.)
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Natalie Schellack
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa;
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.)
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan;
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
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Sono TM, Yeika E, Cook A, Kalungia A, Opanga SA, Acolatse JEE, Sefah IA, Jelić AG, Campbell S, Lorenzetti G, Ul Mustafa Z, Marković-Peković V, Kurdi A, Anand Paramadhas BD, Rwegerera GM, Amu AA, Alabi ME, Wesangula E, Oluka M, Khuluza F, Chikowe I, Fadare JO, Ogunleye OO, Kibuule D, Hango E, Schellack N, Ramdas N, Massele A, Mudenda S, Hoxha I, Moore CE, Godman B, Meyer JC. Current rates of purchasing of antibiotics without a prescription across sub-Saharan Africa; rationale and potential programmes to reduce inappropriate dispensing and resistance. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2023; 21:1025-1055. [PMID: 37740561 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2023.2259106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global concern. Currently, the greatest mortality due to AMR is in Africa. A key driver continues to be high levels of dispensing of antibiotics without a prescription. AREAS COVERED A need to document current rates of dispensing, their rationale and potential ways forward including antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs). A narrative review was undertaken. The highest rates of antibiotic purchasing were in Eritrea (up to 89.2% of antibiotics dispensed), Ethiopia (up to 87.9%), Nigeria (up to 86.5%), Tanzania (up to 92.3%) and Zambia (up to 100% of pharmacies dispensing antibiotics without a prescription). However, considerable variation was seen with no dispensing in a minority of countries and situations. Key drivers of self-purchasing included high co-payment levels for physician consultations and antibiotic costs, travel costs, convenience of pharmacies, patient requests, limited knowledge of antibiotics and AMR and weak enforcement. ASPs have been introduced in some African countries along with quality targets to reduce inappropriate dispensing, centering on educating pharmacists and patients. EXPERT OPINION ASP activities need accelerating among community pharmacies alongside quality targets, with greater monitoring of pharmacists' activities to reduce inappropriate dispensing. Such activities, alongside educating patients and healthcare professionals, should enhance appropriate dispensing of antibiotics and reduce AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiyani Milta Sono
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- Saselamani Pharmacy, Saselamani, South Africa
| | - Eugene Yeika
- Programs coordinator/Technical supervisor for HIV/Malaria, Delegation of Public Health, Cameroon
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London, UK
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Health Economics Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Aubrey Kalungia
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Sylvia A Opanga
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Israel Abebrese Sefah
- Pharmacy Practice Department, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Volta Region, Ho, Ghana
| | - Ana Golić Jelić
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia & Herzegovina
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan, Pakistan
| | - Vanda Marković-Peković
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Bosnia & Herzegovina
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
- College of Pharmacy, Al-Kitab University, Kirkuk, Iraq
| | - Bene D Anand Paramadhas
- Department of Health Services Management, Central Medical Stores, Ministry of Health, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Godfrey Mutashambara Rwegerera
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
- DestinyMedical and Research Solutions Proprietary Limited, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Adefolarin A Amu
- Pharmacy Department, Eswatini Medical Christian University, Mbabane, Kingdom of Eswatini
| | - Mobolaji Eniola Alabi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences,University of Kwazulu-natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa
| | - Evelyn Wesangula
- East Central and Southern Africa Health Community, Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Margaret Oluka
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Felix Khuluza
- Pharmacy Department, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) (formerly College of Medicine), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Ibrahim Chikowe
- Pharmacy Department, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) (formerly College of Medicine), Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Joseph O Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Olayinka O Ogunleye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja, Uganda
| | - Dan Kibuule
- Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Ester Hango
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Natalie Schellack
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, SouthAfrica
| | - Nishana Ramdas
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Amos Massele
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Hurbert Kairuki Memorial University, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
- Africa Center of Excellence for Infectious Diseases of Humans and Animals, School of Veterinary Meicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Iris Hoxha
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Catrin E Moore
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, Schoolof Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho HealthSciences University, Garankuwa, Pretoria, South Africa
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Gul B, Sana M, Saleem A, Mustafa ZU, Salman M, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Sono TM, Meyer JC, Godman BB. Antimicrobial Dispensing Practices during COVID-19 and the Implications for Pakistan. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1018. [PMID: 37370337 PMCID: PMC10294926 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics are one of the most frequently dispensed classes of medicines. However, excessive misuse and abuse enhances antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Previous studies in Pakistan have documented extensive dispensing of 'Watch' and 'Reserve' antibiotics, which is a concern. In view of this, there is a need to assess current dispensing patterns following COVID-19 in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was undertaken, collecting dispensing data from 39 pharmacies and 53 drug stores from November 2022 to February 2023. Outlets were principally in urban areas (60.9%), with pharmacists/pharmacy technicians present in 32.6% of outlets. In total, 11,092 prescriptions were analyzed; 67.1% of patients were supplied at least one antimicrobial, 74.3% antibiotics, 10.2% antifungals and 7.9% anthelmintics. A total of 33.2% of antimicrobials were supplied without a prescription. Common indications for dispensed antibiotics were respiratory (34.3%) and gastrointestinal (16.8%) infections, which can be self-limiting. In addition, 12% of antibiotics were dispensed for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. The most frequent antibiotics dispensed were ceftriaxone (18.4%) and amoxicillin (15.4%). Overall, 59.2% antibiotics were 'Watch' antibiotics, followed by 'Access' (40.3%) and 'Reserve' (0.5%) antibiotics. Of the total antibiotics dispensed for treating COVID-19, 68.3% were 'Watch' and 31.7% 'Access'. Overall, there appeared to be an appreciable number of antibiotics dispensed during the recent pandemic, including for patients with COVID-19, alongside generally extensive dispensing of 'Watch' antibiotics. This needs to be urgently addressed with appropriate programs among pharmacists/pharmacy technicians to reduce AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Gul
- Department of Medicines, Tehsil Head Quarter (THQ) Hospital, District Bhakkar, Darya Khan 3000, Punjab, Pakistan;
| | - Maria Sana
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan; (M.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Aneela Saleem
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan; (M.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan 57400, Punja, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54000, Punja, Pakistan;
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Tiyani Milta Sono
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- Saselamani Pharmacy, Saselamani 0928, Limpopo, South Africa
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Brian B. Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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7
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Hoxha I, Godman B, Malaj A, Meyer JC. 11-Year Trend in Antibiotic Consumption in a South-Eastern European Country; the Situation in Albania and the Implications for the Future. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:882. [PMID: 37237785 PMCID: PMC10215466 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12050882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There are growing concerns with rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across countries. These concerns are enhanced by the increasing and inappropriate utilization of 'Watch' antibiotics with their greater resistance potential, AMR is further exacerbated by the increasing use of antibiotics to treat patients with COVID-19 despite little evidence of bacterial infections. Currently, little is known about antibiotic utilization patterns in Albania in recent years, including the pandemic years, the influence of an ageing population, as well as increasing GDP and greater healthcare governance. Consequently, total utilization patterns in the country were tracked from 2011 to 2021 alongside key indicators. Key indicators included total utilization as well as changes in the use of 'Watch' antibiotics. Antibiotic consumption fell from 27.4 DIDs (defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day) in 2011 to 18.8 DIDs in 2019, which was assisted by an ageing population and improved infrastructures. However, there was an appreciable increase in the use of 'Watch' antibiotics during the study period. Their utilization rose from 10% of the total utilization among the top 10 most utilized antibiotics (DID basis) in 2011 to 70% by 2019. Antibiotic utilization subsequently rose after the pandemic to 25.1 DIDs in 2021, reversing previous downward trends. Alongside this, there was increasing use of 'Watch' antibiotics, which accounted for 82% (DID basis) of the top 10 antibiotics in 2021. In conclusion, educational activities and antimicrobial stewardship programs are urgently needed in Albania to reduce inappropriate utilization, including 'Watch' antibiotics, and hence AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Hoxha
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine Tirana, 1001 Tirana, Albania
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Admir Malaj
- Independent Researcher, 1001 Tirana, Albania
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Garankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
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Determinants of the Empiric Use of Antibiotics by General Practitioners in South Africa: Observational, Analytic, Cross-Sectional Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11101423. [PMID: 36290081 PMCID: PMC9598257 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11101423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The overuse of antibiotics is the main driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there has been limited surveillance data on AMR and antibiotic prescribing at a primary healthcare level in South Africa. An observational, analytic, cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess key factors associated with empiric antibiotic prescribing among private sector general practitioners (GPs) in the eThekwini district in South Africa, particularly for patients with acute respiratory infections (ARIs). A semi-structured web-based questionnaire was used between November 2020−March 2021. One hundred and sixteen (55.5%) responding GPs prescribed antibiotics empirically for patients with ARIs more than 70% of the time, primarily for symptom relief and the prevention of complications. GPs between the ages of 35−44 years (OR: 3.38; 95%CI: 1.15−9.88), >55 years (OR: 4.75; 95% CI 1.08−21) and in practice < 15 years (OR: 2.20; 95%CI: 1.08−4.51) were significantly more likely to prescribe antibiotics empirically. Three factors—workload/time pressures; diagnostic uncertainty, and the use of a formulary, were significantly associated with empiric prescribing. GPs with more experience and working alone were slightly less likely to prescribe antibiotics empirically. These findings indicate that a combination of environmental factors are important underlying contributors to the development of AMR. As a result, guide appropriate interventions using a health system approach, which includes pertinent prescribing indicators and targets.
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