Regional variations in community consumption of antibiotics in Hungary, 1996–2003.

Aims To study regional differences and identify determinants of antibiotic consumption in ambulatory care in Hungary. Methods Regional distribution-based antibiotic sales data were converted into a number of defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitant-days. Correlations were assessed with the Spearman rank test. Results There were large and stable interregional differences in antibiotic consumption. They were associated with socio-economic determinants, e.g. the population receiving free access to medicines and receiving regular social assistance. Conclusions More detailed studies are needed to better understand the determinants of antibiotic use in these specific patient populations and to identify additional determinants at regional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]