US surveys find over a quarter misrepresented symptoms to obtain antibiotics
Two US studies found that more than a quarter of surveyed adults had misrepresented symptoms to obtain antibiotics for themselves or a child in their care. The findings matter because antibiotics treat bacterial infections, not common viral illnesses such as colds, and unnecessary use can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Researchers analysed 959 complete survey responses from 1,371 adults: 268 people, or 28 per cent, reported lying about their own symptoms. Among 263 respondents who were caregivers, 63, or 27 per cent, said they had done so for a child. Most commonly, people exaggerated and invented symptoms together; 65 per cent of those who misrepresented symptoms cited cold-related signs, and 77 per cent of adults and 87 per cent of caregivers said their claims resulted in a prescription. Respondents often said they felt the illness was severe or believed antibiotics were the only thing that would help.
In short
- Over a quarter of respondents reported lying to obtain antibiotics.
- Most reported false symptoms associated with colds.
- The claims often led to antibiotic prescriptions.
Explained simply
Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They do not work against viruses, which cause illnesses such as most colds, and using antibiotics when they are not needed can help bacteria become resistant to treatment.
Doctors decide whether antibiotics are appropriate by assessing symptoms and, when needed, carrying out tests. Patients and caregivers may describe symptoms for themselves or a child, so accurate information helps clinicians make that decision.
Antibiotic resistance can make some bacterial infections harder to treat. Reducing unnecessary prescriptions is one way health services seek to preserve the medicines’ effectiveness.
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Originally published by Ars Technica as “Over 25% of people lie to get antibiotics—and their lies aren’t even good”.