Antibiotics’ side effects are not fully understood among patients and providers

Overprescribing of antibiotics is a persistent problem, particularly for upper respiratory infections. This has an direct influence on increase of healthcare costs and adverse reactions as well as accelerated evolution of antibiotic resistance. A new study “Patients and Clinicians' Perceptions of Antibiotic Prescribing for Upper Respiratory Infections in the Acute Care Setting” discovered that ‘Why not take a risk’ mentality is widespread among patients and medical care providers. Many in both groups believe that there are potential benefits and very little risk in taking antibiotics. They held this belief despite the fact that approximately 20% of patients can get some sort of side effects.

Study stresses that educational strategies are needed to both patient and providers. The ultimate goal should be to reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescription and spread of antibiotic resistance.

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Link to study: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/0272989X18770664