ANTIBIOTICS USE BY STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITYOFBENIN

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global public health threat, significantly driven by the irrational use of antibiotics. University students represent a key demographic whose medication-related behaviours influence community resistance patterns. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use and resistance among undergraduate students of the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed. A total of 430 students were selected using a multi-stage probability sampling technique across eight faculties. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 27.0, utilizing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to determine associations between variables. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of respondents was 20.3 ± 2.9 years. The study revealed a high prevalence of antibiotic use, with 58.8% of students having used an antibiotic in the preceding six months. Overall, 81.6% of respondents demonstrated poor knowledge of antibiotics and AMR. Misconceptions were widespread: 78.1% incorrectly believed antibiotics are effective against viral infections (flu/coughs), and only 10.0% correctly identified the biological mechanism of resistance. Attitudes were predominantly negative (70.2%); notably, 51.0%perceivedsharingleftover antibiotics as a "helpful social gesture." Regarding practices, 50.7%demonstratedpoorbehaviour. The most common source of antibiotics was Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors xiv (29.3%), while only 18.8% obtained drugs via a doctor’s prescription. Faculty of study (p=0.005)and Level of study (p=0.005) were significantly associated with knowledge levels, with medical students and seniors performing better. Attitude was a significant predictor of practice(p<0.001). Conclusion: There is a concerning deficit in antibiotic literacy and a high prevalence of inappropriate practices among students at the University of Benin. The reliance on unregulated vendors and the social normalization of medication sharing underscore the need for urgent interventions. It is recommended that the University administration integrates antimicrobial stewardship modules into the General Studies (GST) curriculum and strengthens the campus health services to reduce reliance on informal medication sources.