SELF-MEDICATION WITH ANTIBIOTICS: ASSOCIATED FACTORS AND THE ROLE OF THE PHARMACIST IN PREVENTING IRRATIONAL USE

Abstract

Self-medication involves the use of drugs to alleviate ailments or symptoms identified by the individual, without the guidance of a healthcare professional. This research aims to understand the factors associated with the habit of self-medicating with antibiotics. The study is a literature review based on the analysis of scientific publications regarding antibiotic self-medication, associated factors, and the pharmacist's role in preventing irrational use. Analysis of the scientific articles (published between 2021 and 2026) revealed that the body of research centers on a public health triad: self-medication (causes and risks), irrational antibiotic use (bacterial resistance), and pharmacist intervention (rational use and management). The analysis concludes that the issue requires strengthened health regulation and continuous public education campaigns to mitigate harm to public health. Recent scientific literature unanimously points to the same solution: valuing and actively integrating the clinical pharmacist as both an educator and a monitor a key figure in ensuring patient safety and the efficacy of treatments in both public and private sectors.