ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING PATTERNS IN THE TREATMENT OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING PATTERNS IN THE TREATMENT OF URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN SARAJEVO, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Summary/Abstract: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common bacterial infections managed in primary health care and represent one of the leading causes of antibiotic prescribing in outpatient settings. This study aimed to analyze antibiotic prescribing patterns and treatment outcomes among patients with UTIs treated in primary health care facilities in Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina. A retrospective observational study was conducted among 200 adult patients diagnosed and treated for UTIs. Data regarding demographic characteristics, prescribed antibiotics, treatment duration, and clinical outcomes were collected from medical records and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. The mean age of patients was 59.9 ± 16.2 years, and females accounted for 86% of the study population. Fluorokinolons and cefalosporins were the most frequently prescribed antibiotics. Clinical cure was achieved in 92% of patients, with favorable outcomes observed across the most commonly prescribed antimicrobial agents. Despite high treatment success rates, the observed prescribing pattern indicates frequent use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, particularly fluoroquinolones and third-generation cephalosporins, suggesting opportunities for improving adherence to evidence-based recommendations and strengthening antimicrobial stewardship in primary health care

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