Antibiotic Dispensing Practices in Community Pharmacies and Drug Stores: Research Findings

Community pharmacies and drug stores in Malawi often dispense antibiotics without requiring a prescription, contributing to the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). A recent study in Lilongwe revealed that 53% of antibiotics for acute diarrhea and 92% for upper respiratory tract infections were sold without prescriptions. This practice undermines efforts to control AMR and highlights the need for stricter regulations and public education on responsible antibiotic use.