Abstract
https://majms.alkafeel.edu.iq/journal/vol5/iss1/2/
Abstract
Background: Despite existing regulatory restrictions from the Iraqi Ministry of Health and global guidance from the
World Health Organization, the practice of dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions remains prevalent.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic dispensing in community pharmacies across Iraq and to evaluate pharmacy personnel\'s perceptions and practices concerning antimicrobial use.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and February 2025, targeting 63 pharmacists
working in independent pharmacies across Baghdad and other Iraqi governorates. Data were obtained through a
predefined questionnaire administered both in person and online. Descriptive statistics summarized participant demographics and responses, while Chi-square and Fisher\'s exact tests were used to explore associations between
dispensing practices and various demographic and attitudinal factors.
Results: Among the 63 respondents, 76.2 % reported dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions, with a median of 60
such cases per month. Misconceptions were widespread, with 77.8 % of respondents believing that antibiotics possess
analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While most pharmacists reported encouraging patients to complete the full
course of treatment, brand substitution and dispensing under patient pressure were frequently observed. No significant
associations were found between dispensing behavior and demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). However, significant
associations (P < 0.05) emerged in relation to beliefs about the legality of the practice, patient expectations, and concerns about financial loss.
Conclusion: Non-prescription antibiotic dispensing remains widespread and is shaped primarily by pharmacists’
perceptions of legality, patient expectations, and financial pressures rather than demographic factors. Strengthening
regulatory enforcement, improving pharmacist training, and increasing public awareness are essential to support
responsible antimicrobial use and national antimicrobial resistance containment efforts.
Abstract
Background: Despite existing regulatory restrictions from the Iraqi Ministry of Health and global guidance from the
World Health Organization, the practice of dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions remains prevalent.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic dispensing in community pharmacies across Iraq and to evaluate pharmacy personnel\'s perceptions and practices concerning antimicrobial use.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and February 2025, targeting 63 pharmacists
working in independent pharmacies across Baghdad and other Iraqi governorates. Data were obtained through a
predefined questionnaire administered both in person and online. Descriptive statistics summarized participant demographics and responses, while Chi-square and Fisher\'s exact tests were used to explore associations between
dispensing practices and various demographic and attitudinal factors.
Results: Among the 63 respondents, 76.2 % reported dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions, with a median of 60
such cases per month. Misconceptions were widespread, with 77.8 % of respondents believing that antibiotics possess
analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. While most pharmacists reported encouraging patients to complete the full
course of treatment, brand substitution and dispensing under patient pressure were frequently observed. No significant
associations were found between dispensing behavior and demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). However, significant
associations (P < 0.05) emerged in relation to beliefs about the legality of the practice, patient expectations, and concerns about financial loss.
Conclusion: Non-prescription antibiotic dispensing remains widespread and is shaped primarily by pharmacists’
perceptions of legality, patient expectations, and financial pressures rather than demographic factors. Strengthening
regulatory enforcement, improving pharmacist training, and increasing public awareness are essential to support
responsible antimicrobial use and national antimicrobial resistance containment efforts.