IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-6-6-11147 Original Research Paper CURRENT TRENDS IN ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING PRACTICES BY DENTISTS: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY Dr. June 2017 6 6 01 02 ABSTRACT

 Aim and Objectives: The use of antimicrobial agents has been increased, leading to bacterial resistance. Therefore the health professionals should have a sound knowledge about the prescription of antibiotics to overcome the increasing bacterial resistance. A survey was conducted to determine prescribing pattern of antibiotics for various Dental procedures by Dental practitioners. Materials and methods: This was a survey based descriptive cross–sectional study. A self–administered semi–structured validated and pretested open and close–ended questionnaire was utilized for assessing the antibiotic prescription practice. A structured questionnaire was sent to 117 Dental health care practitioners. The survey encompassed demographic data, mechanisms to keep current with prophylactic practice, first– and second–line drugs prescribed with doses and directions, applicable Medical conditions and Dental procedures warranting antibiotic prophylaxis. The data were entered and analyzed using statistical package for social science [SPSS] version 16.0. Chi–squared test was used to test for any significant differences between groups of respondents based on qualitative variables. Results: With are response rate of 100%, Medical representatives, patients’ preference, a fear of loss of patients and fear of spread of infections can potentially “influence” a Dentist’s capability to prescribe antibiotics. Conclusion: Antibiotics, when judiciously used, are precise life–saving drugs. The Dental profession as a whole needs to acquire a deeper understanding of the global effects of superfluous antibiotic prescription As a nation, we must respond to this growing problem so that antibiotics misuse can be stopped.