Survey of Antibiotic Use without Prescription among Parents for Childhood Illnesses in Minna, Niger State, North Central Nigeria

Background: Parental self-prescription of antibiotics for their children is a major contributor to irrational antibiotic use and rising resistance rates. In Nigeria, weak regulatory enforcement and widespread over-the-counter antibiotic availability facilitate this practice. This study surveyed antibiotic use without prescription among parents for childhood illnesses in Minna, Niger State. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in four residential wards of Minna metropolis. Structured questionnaires were administered to 280 parents with at least one child under twelve years. Data on antibiotic type used, illness indication, source of drug, and reasons for bypassing prescription were collected. Results: Non-prescription antibiotic use for childhood illnesses was reported by 64 percent of respondents. Amoxicillin (55%) and cotrimoxazole (28%) were the most commonly used agents. Common childhood indications included cough (46%), fever (38%), and ear pain (16%). Key reasons for bypassing prescription included cost of hospital visits (61%), prior familiarity with the antibiotic (48%), and time constraints (34%). Conclusion: Parental non-prescription antibiotic use in Minna is alarmingly prevalent. Community-level education on antibiotic stewardship and stricter enforcement of prescription-only regulations are necessary. Keywords: antibiotic self-medication, children, parents, Minna, antimicrobial resistance