Situations predisposing primary care patients to use antibiotics without a prescription in the United States

This study reveals that patients’ situations can influence their intention to use antibiotics without medical guidance. A survey of 564 patients found that the most common situations triggering non-prescription antibiotic use were perceived high cost of doctor visits, having leftover prescription antibiotics, and experiencing symptom relief with prior antibiotic use. Younger patients and those attending the safety-net health system had more intended use of non-prescription antibiotics. Future stewardship interventions should consider these situations and educate individuals on medically appropriate non-antibiotic treatment options.