Intervention on Non-prescription Antibiotic Use Among the Public

Effect of Health Education on Non-prescription Antibiotic Use Among the Public: a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of health education int led by community health workers for non-prescription antibiotic use among the public. In this two arm cluster randomised trial, In this two-arm cluster randomized controlled trial, 22 communities were randomly allocated in a 1:1 ratio to intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, family doctors will conduct WeChat-based health education on responsible use of antibiotic for the participants. In the control group, only routine public health education will be provided without any involvement in antibiotic use. The primary outcome is the incidence of antibiotic use without prescription in the past month.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Aged between 18 and 75 years old;
• Local residents (residing for more than 6 months) with no plans for employment, study, or relocation in the next six months;
• Having normal cognitive, comprehension, and independent communication abilities, and voluntarily participating in this study;
• Able to use WeChat independently or with guidance from family members.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unable to comprehend the purpose of the survey, unwilling to cooperate, or lacking willingness to provide honest answers to questions;
• Illiterate, severely physically disabled, or lacking necessary comprehension abilities;
• Healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists, etc.;
• Individuals with autoimmune diseases or hereditary diseases affecting the use of common medications;