One in four Americans have exaggerated or made up symptoms to try to get antibiotics
More than a quarter of Americans have exaggerated or made up symptoms to try to get antibiotics from their doctor, either for themselves or for their children, a new study has found. The survey of nearly 1,000 people nationwide uncovered common motivations for misrepresenting symptoms, including feeling very sick or needing to return to work or school.
A new study reveals that nearly a quarter of Americans have exaggerated or fabricated symptoms to obtain antibiotics, either for themselves or their children. Conducted on a nationwide sample of around 1,000 individuals, the survey uncovered several reasons behind this behavior. Many respondents either felt extremely ill or needed to return to work or school quickly, believing antibiotics were their sole option for relief.
Andrea Levy, a study author from Connecticut State Community College, explains that antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections but ineffective against viral infections, which often cause cold or flu-like symptoms. Misrepresenting symptoms leads to antibiotic misuse, which can result in side effects and contribute to antimicrobial resistance—a broader public health issue.
The researchers urge better communication between doctors and patients to foster trust, openness, and transparency, aiming to enhance the patient-provider relationship.
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