Adherence and utilization of short-term antibiotics: Randomized controlled study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Infectious Diseases
• Health Outcomes

Background:

• Medication adherence is crucial for clinical outcomes and cost reduction.
• The impact of pharmacist-led education on short-term antibiotic adherence in Jordan remains unstudied.
• Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of a clinical pharmacist-led educational intervention on adherence to short-term antibiotic therapy.
• To assess antibiotic utilization patterns in adult patients in Jordan.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial was conducted.
• Adult patients prescribed short-term antibiotics (<30 days) were randomized into control and intervention groups.
• The intervention group received pharmaceutical education on correct antibiotic use.

Main Results:

• The most prescribed antibiotic classes were penicillins (38.7%), fluoroquinolones (23.9%), and cephalosporins (20.9%).
• Patients receiving pharmacist education showed significantly higher adherence to short-term antibiotics (OR = 1.445, p = 0.033).
• Factors associated with better adherence included employment, less frequent dosing, and seeking information.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacist-led educational interventions effectively enhance adherence to short-term antibiotic prescriptions.
• Improved adherence is vital for combating antibiotic resistance.
• Integrating patient education into medication dispensing processes is recommended.