A qualitative analysis of pharmacists' attitudes and practices regarding the sale of antibiotics without prescription in Syria

ObjectivesAntibiotic resistance poses an alarming threat in antimicrobial therapy worldwide. This practice is widely spread in Syria as in other countries. This study aims to investigate the Syrian pharmacists' attitudes and practices in regard to antibiotic dispensing without prescription.MethodsDirect interview questions and five hypothetical scenarios were presented to 350 pharmacists in 3 major Syrian cities. Interview transcripts were prepared, coded, and categorized under 5 major themes using a computer software.Results147 pharmacists agreed to participate in our study. All pharmacists admit to dispense antibiotics without a prescription. Pharmacists were more likely to dispense antibiotics to their relatives, usual customers, and to patients who were prescribed the same antibiotic before. Most pharmacists did not agree that this practice posed a problem to patients welfare. The ones who agreed felt that more laws were needed and that the existing laws lacked enforcement.ConclusionsThe results are quite alarming as our study shows that this practice will most probably continue to exist. Stricter laws and more law enforcement in addition to pharmacists and public education may constitute the most important elements to limit the spread of antibiotic dispensing without prescription in Syria.