Attitudes of Medical and Non-Medical Undergraduate Students Toward Antibiotic Use and Herbal Medicines in Sulaimani- Iraq

Abstract

Background: Misuse of antibiotics and uncritical use of herbal medicines are common among young adults, potentially contributing to public health risks such as antimicrobial resistance and herbal–drug interactions. Evaluating university students' attitudes toward these practices is essential for shaping targeted educational strategies.

Objective: To assess and compare the attitudes of medical and non-medical undergraduate students in Sulaimani, Iraq, toward the use of antibiotics and herbal medicines.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 301 undergraduate students (195 medical and 106 non-medical) using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS (version X), and chi-square tests were used to assess statistical significance, with a p-value of p<0.05 considered significant.

Results: Medical students demonstrated significantly greater awareness of antibiotic resistance and were less likely to self-medicate with antibiotics compared to non-medical students. Both groups expressed generally positive attitudes toward herbal medicines; however, non-medical students were more likely to rely on herbal remedies for common ailments. Awareness of potential side effects and interactions of herbal medicines was low across both groups.

Conclusion: Medical students showed better-informed antibiotic use behaviors, while misconceptions about herbal medicines were common in both student groups. Targeted awareness programs are recommended to promote responsible use of both antibiotics and herbal treatments among university students in Iraq.