Abstract
Introduction:
The WHO AWaRe (Access, Watch, Reserve) classification is an important tool for monitoring antibiotic stewardship and curbing antibiotic resistance. This study described the prevalence of antibiotic use based on WHO AWaRe classification at a tertiary care center.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in internal medicine department from 24 December 2025 to 23 March 2026 for a duration of three months after approval from Institutional Review Committee, Protocol No: 16/25/V1.R0. Patients who were prescribed at least one antibiotic in outpatient prescription forms or inpatient medication charts were included. Convenience sampling method was used. Data of patients, including socio-demographic profile, clinical characteristics, and antibiotic use patterns, were collected. The WHO AWaRe classification was used to assess patterns of antibiotic use. Data were expressed as mean and standard deviation, frequency and percentage using PSPP 2.1.1.
Results:
Of the total 218 patients, 139 (63.76%) were female. A total of 410 antibiotics were used. Average number of antibiotics prescribed per patient was 1.88±0.90. From watch group, 292 (71.21%) antibiotics were used. Of the total antibiotics used from watch group, 238 (58.04%) were prescribed to those above 50 years of age, and 166 (40.46%) to females. Moreover, 363 (88.53%) antibiotics were prescribed from National List of Essential Medicines Nepal 2021 (Sixth Revision).
Conclusions:
Majority of drugs used belonged to watch group of the WHO AWaRe classification. The study suggests a coordinated effort for antibiotic stewardship and scope for improvement of antibiotic use from access group.
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