Knowledge, attitude and practice on antibiotic therapy among dental students-a pilot study Dr. Anandakumar Sudharsana1,*, Dr. Sankari R.2 1III Year, Post Graduate Department of Periodontics, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha University, Chennai-600077 2Professor, Department of Periodontics, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha University, Chennai-600077 *Corresponding Author E-mail: sudharsana17@gmail.com
Online published on 24 August, 2018. Abstract Background Antibiotics are important in the management and prophylaxis of infection in patients at risk of experiencing microbial disease. Overuse and inappropriate use of antimicrobial agents is closely related to an increase in bacterial resistance. A sound knowledge of appropriate prescribing of antimicrobials among health professionals is thus critical in combating the resistance. Aim The aim of this study is to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice on antibiotic therapy among dental students. Method A questionnaire containing 12 questions was used for this cross-sectional study and distributed to 250 dental students which includes undergraduates in clinical training and post graduates. Among which 100 were undergraduate students, 80 were interns and 70 were post graduate students. The questionnaire comprises of questions to assess the knowledge on antibiotics, assess their antibiotic prescription practice and attitude towards antibiotic therapy. Results The present study showed more than 50% of the students had sound knowledge on pharmacology of antibiotics. More than 80% of the students preferred amoxicillin for management of periodontitis compared to any other antibiotic. But only 8% of the students knew the correct protocol for amoxicillin prescription. Though 64% of the students use combination therapy, they were not aware of the advantage of combination therapy. Conclusion The present study shows that there is need for educational program targeting antibiotic use and its protocol among dental students. Though there is clarity about drug and their indication but there is lack of awareness about their protocol. Top Keywords Antibiotics, Periodontal therapy, Systemic antibiotics. Top |