Antibiotic consumption patterns and drug leftovers in 6000 Brazilian households

Worldwide data indicate that antibiotics are frequently used indiscriminately. The present study used a questionnaire in an attempt to quantify and qualify outpatient antibiotic consumption habits, including when the drug was used, who recommended it, and to what extent treatment was completed, and to question householders on the presence of antibiotics in their homes, including leftovers from previous treatments. The questionnaire was distributed to residents of 6000 households that made up a representative sample of the Brazilian population and was completed by designated respondents from 4932 residences (82.2%) with or without field interviewer supervision. Each household reported an average of 3.7 treatments in the previous year, with amoxicillin the most frequently used antibiotic in this survey (18%), regardless of socioeconomic class. Most treatments were recommended through medical prescription, and this source of antibiotic was associated with the highest rate of completed therapy (80.4%). Azithromycin and ciprofloxacin produced the highest rates of completed treatment and the lowest rates of antibiotic leftovers. Storing antibiotics at home increases the cost of each treatment event, reduces efficacy, and may encourage the emergence of resistant organisms in the community. Educational efforts must be redoubled to promote the rational and effective use of drugs, especially antibiotics.