Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global public health challenge. Due to overuse of antibiotics, bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics, which creates infections that can't be treated by modern medicine. To combat AMR, the public need to both know that AMR is an issue and know what actions they can take to address AMR.
When patients are prescribed antibiotics, the information provided (and how this is provided) is likely to be influential on whether they are taken correctly, or if behaviours that contribute to antimicrobial resistance (such as not finishing the course) predominate.
This study, a large online experiment involving 7,000 people across the UK, aims explore the influence of what information and how it is provided. The study looks at different ways of presenting information on antibiotic packets-from clear instructions to warnings and even scannable QR codes with extra details.
The main goals are to see if these changes can help participants understand how to take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. The investigators also want to see if it helps participants understand what antibiotic resistance is and their role in preventing it.
By understanding what works best, the investigators hope to find simple, effective ways to help everyone use antibiotics wisely, protecting these vital medicines for the future.
Adults aged 18 and over
United Kingdom residents
Have passed the attention check at the start of the online survey.
Individuals who are not signed up a market research panel and therefore will not have access to the online survey.
Those resident outside the UK.
Those who fail the attention check at the start of the online survey. Individuals aged under 18.
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Treatment groupsSee each treatment group below.
Imperial College London
Lead sponsor
The Behavioural Insights Team
Collaborator