Ekaete A. Tobin, Martha Okonofua
Background: The observed poor prognosis in several infectious disease treatment emerging from antibiotic resistance
has been attributed to failure to achieve optimum drug concentrations in vivo as a result of non-adherence to
prescribed antibiotic therapy. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of non-adherence and associated factors in
Nigeria.
Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design, 800 consenting attendees at adult general outpatient clinics of 5
secondary and tertiary hospitals in Edo central senatorial district, Edo State, Nigeria were interviewed using pretested
questionnaires following ethical approval to conduct the study. Independent variables were socio-demographic,
knowledge (good/fair/poor), attitude (positive/negative), perceived doctor's support and perceived family support.
The dependent variable was non-adherence to antibiotic treatment in the past 6 months. Data were analysed using
Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Chi-square test was used for bivariate analysis and significant variables analyzed
with multivariate logistic regression, with statistical significance, p, set as<0.05. Results: Response rate was 100%. Majority, 360 (45.0%), had poor knowledge and 74 (50.3%) had poor attitude
towards antibiotics use.
One hundred and forty-seven respondents (18.4%) had received an antibiotic prescription in the last 4 months, of
which 75 (51.0%) did not complete the dose, with the most common reason given as remission of symptoms (65.3%).
In multivariate analysis, attitude, perceived support from doctor and family members were negatively associated with
non-adherence.
Conclusion: Interventions to improve antibiotic adherence should be centred around education. clinician-patient
interactions and fostering family support for the sick patient.