Why Patients in Uruguay Agree to Take or Refuse to Take Antibiotics? An Inventory of Motives

Abstract

Objectives: We explored the motives for why patients in Uruguay take or refuse to take antibiotic drugs. Methods: We had 350 adults complete a 60-item questionnaire with statements referring to reasons for which the person had taken antibiotics in the past, and a 70-item questionnaire with reasons for which the person had sometimes refused to take antibiotics. Results: We found a 4-factor structure of motives for taking antibiotics: Appropriate Prescription,Enjoyment (antibiotics as a quick fix allowing someone to go out), Dealing with Daily Life Issues, and Avoiding Negative Consequences (mainly negative societal consequences). We found a 7-factor structure of motives to refuse to take antibiotics: Secondary Gain (through prolonged illness), Bacterial Resistance, Self-defense (the body is able to defend itself), Lack of Trust, Costs, Hostility (not contributing to pharmaceutical companies′ increases in benefits) and Dislike. Scores on these factors were related to participants′ demographics and previous experience with antibiotics. Conclusions: Uruguayan people are generally willing to follow their physician's prescription for antibiotics. Some of the motives for refusing antibiotic therapy may be grounded more on emotional reactions than on scientific arguments.