Non-prescription Antibiotic Use in Children in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Author Information
Author(s): Zewdie Segenet, Kassa Assefa Andargie, Yayehrad Ashagrachew Tewabe, Bizuneh Mekonnen Melkie, Ayenew Wondim, Zewudie Melkamu, Mulat Selomie, Bitew Bayih Endalew, Zewudie Serkalem, Meharie Birhanu Geta, Tesfaye Tegenu Chanie, Zerga Aregash Abebayehu, Ayele Fanos Yeshanew, Toleha Husein Nurahmed, Workineh Birhanu Demeke, Bayked Ewunetie Mekashaw
Primary Institution: Injibara University
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic use among children in low- and middle-income countries?
Conclusion
The study found that nearly two out of five children in low- and middle-income countries used non-prescribed antibiotics.
Supporting Evidence
- The pooled prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic use among children was 38.86%.
- Penicillin was the most commonly used antibiotic class without a prescription.
- Upper respiratory infections were the most prevalent symptoms prompting non-prescription antibiotic use.
- High heterogeneity was observed among the studies included in the review.
- Factors influencing non-prescription use included accessibility, price, and healthcare-seeking habits.
Takeaway
Many kids in poorer countries take antibiotics without a doctor's permission, which can be dangerous.
Methodology
The study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 cross-sectional studies published between 2000 and 2024.
Potential Biases
Some studies used convenience sampling, which may not represent the general population.
Limitations
The review included studies with high heterogeneity and only those published in English, which may not represent all low- and middle-income countries.
Participant Demographics
The studies included children aged 18 years and younger from various low- and middle-income countries.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 34.32, 43.40
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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