Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, practices, and attitudes related to antibiotic self-medication among healthcare providers (HCPs). A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCPs in Saudi Arabia. A self-administered, pre-validated questionnaire was distributed in hospitals, medical colleges, and community pharmacies, wherein 289 HCPs participated in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS ver. 24. The providers' professional backgrounds remained a significant factor in predicting the utilization of antibiotics without prescription (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.14-0.64). HCPs who associated antibiotic self-use with a lack of awareness regarding regulations were 64% less likely to use antibiotics without a prescription. With regard to behavior and practice toward antibiotic self-use, HCPs who tended to store their medications in liquid form in a cabinet were less likely to use antibiotics without a prescription compared to providers who stored their medications in refrigerators (OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.16-0.89). In conclusion, educational interventions particularly targeting HCPs are of utmost importance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. All HCPs should curb superfluous antibiotic prescriptions and implement strict practice guidelines regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics among HCPs.