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A Comprehensive Analysis of Trends in Unsupervised Antibiotic Usage in Bangladesh

Students & Supervisors

Student Authors
Shariar Hasan Sifat
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Afroza Amin
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Mahin Montasir Afif
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Engineering, FST
Supervisors
Md. Mortuza Ahmmed
Associate Professor, Faculty, FST

Abstract

Background: In recent years, the misuse of antibiotics through unsupervised self-medication has emerged as a significant public health concern in Bangladesh. Self-medication with antibiotics is becoming more common as people are seeking for quick relief for different health issues without consulting a doctor. This growing trend not only show the risk of antibiotic resistance but also contributes to unnecessary side effects. This survey aims to assess the rising prevalence of selfmedication with antibiotics and its impact on public health in Bangladesh. Methods: Data has been collected from a survey conducted in Rajshahi city, involving 1300 citizens. A total of 347 participants (26.69%) reported self-medication with antibiotics. Most participants were between the ages of 21-30 years (56.48%), with a significantly higher occurrence among males. Above 60 years rates are quite ignorable. Surprisingly, males have a larger portion of taking antibiotics without supervision. Result: Among the 347 participants who used self-medicated antibiotics, 40.63% had been using them for 0-2 years, 19.88% for 3-4 years, and 14.41% for 5-6 years. A smaller proportion, 4.32%, had been using self-medicated antibiotics for over 10 years. Regarding disease recovery, 41.50% of patients reported excellent recovery, 39.19% found it satisfactory, and 2.02% considered it good. However, 6.92% of patients experienced side effects, and 10.37% did not provide feedback on their antibiotic use. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the necessity of more stringent regulations regarding the sale and use of antibiotics in Bangladesh. The Drug Administration of Bangladesh should implement the regulatory controls to prevent the misuse of antibiotics and combat the rising threat of antibiotic resistance. Public awareness is also important to teach people about the dangers of using antibiotics without proper supervision.

Keywords

Self-medication antibiotic disease

Publication Details

  • Type of Publication: Conference
  • Conference Name: 3rd International Conference on Life Sciences 2025 (ICALS 2025)
  • Date of Conference: 11/01/2025 - 12/01/2025
  • Venue: Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail-1902
  • Organizer: Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail-1902
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