A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY ON PRESCRIBING PATTERNS OF ANTIBIOTICS IN HOSPITAL AND COMMUNITY PHARMACY

Antibiotics are widely used for the prevention and treatment of bacterial infections. However, inappropriate prescribing, irrational dispensing, and excessive antibiotic use contribute to antimicrobial resistance, which has become a major public health concern. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate and compare antibiotic prescribing patterns in hospital and community pharmacy settings. The study focuses on identifying commonly prescribed antibiotics, assessing generic and branded prescribing practices, evaluating dosage regimens and treatment duration, and documenting reported adverse drug reactions. Data will be collected through prescription review and relevant patient records, where applicable, without interfering with routine treatment. The findings will help identify differences in antibiotic utilization between hospital and community settings and highlight potential areas of inappropriate antibiotic use. The study may also emphasize the role of pharmacists in promoting rational antibiotic use, improving patient counseling, and supporting antimicrobial stewardship. The results may contribute to safer prescribing practices and efforts to minimize antimicrobial resistance.