Lack of Knowledge of Antibiotic Risks Contributes to Primary Care Patients’ Expectations of Antibiotics for Common Symptoms

A survey in Texas found that 93% of patients expect antibiotics for common symptoms, with public clinic patients being twice as likely to expect antibiotics for sore throat, diarrhea, and cold/flu. Low education and health literacy were associated with increased antibiotic expectations for diarrhea and cold/flu symptoms. Future antibiotic stewardship interventions should include information on antibiotic risks and appropriate indications.