Nonprescription antimicrobial use during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review

Sinta Karolina; Wahyu  Sulistiadi

doi:10.22146/bkm.v39i02.6901

Sinta Karolina Master Study Program of Public Health Science, Health Policy and Administration Departement, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia
Wahyu Sulistiadi Health Policy and Administration Departement, Faculty of Public Health, Universitas Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22146/bkm.v39i02.6901

Keywords: self-medication, without prescription, antibiotics, COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose: Restrictions on mobility, confusion of information, and the lack of scientific evidence related to the treatment of COVID-19 have implications for the emergence of self-medication behavior in the community, especially the use of antimicrobials without a prescription. This study aims to describe the pattern of non-prescription antimicrobial use during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted on articles published between 2020-2022 from 3 databases: Embase, Scopus, and Science Direct, examining the use of over-the-counter antimicrobials during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results: 13 relevant studies reviewed usage patterns, including self-medication behavior and antimicrobial dispensing practices without a prescription.

Conclusion: The panic during the COVID-19 pandemic triggered the over-the-counter use of antimicrobials without a prescription, both as an effort to prevent and reduce symptoms. The role of community pharmacists and the government is urgently needed to overcome this.

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