Abstract

Acute sinusitis is a common upper respiratory tract infection in children and adults that can be treated by conventional medication therapy to improve symptoms as supportive care. However, antibiotics are sometimes inappropriately prescribed as sinusitis is commonly viral in origin. The rate of antibiotic abuse in sinusitis in both children and adults is considered high. This study evaluated the prescription of antibiotics in Saudi population for sinusitis either in acute or chronic setting. Educational and awareness programs are mandatory. Further studies are required to evaluate the knowledge and behavior of doctors on prescribing antibiotics for this indication.

Key words: Sinusitis, antibiotics, resistance, antibiotics abuse, Saudi Arabia