Lack of Knowledge and Training About Antibiotic Resistance Among Community Pharmacists in Bangladesh: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Antibiotic resistance poses a critical global public health threat, disproportionately affecting low‐ and middle‐income countries. Community pharmacists in Bangladesh serve as key healthcare intermediaries, yet significant knowledge gaps regarding antibiotic use and resistance persist. This study assessed the level of knowledge and training among community pharmacists in Bangladesh regarding antibiotic resistance and explored their relationship with antibiotic dispensing practices. Methods A cross‐sectional study was conducted among community pharmacists in Bangladesh using a validated self‐administered questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotic use and resistance, and dispensing practices. Results Among 191 participants, only 8.4% demonstrated adequate knowledge of antibiotic resistance and 38% had received antimicrobial stewardship training. Training was strongly associated with more favorable attitudes ( p < 0.001) and better dispensing practices ( p < 0.001), but not with overall knowledge levels ( p = 0.12). Conclusion Substantial knowledge and training deficits exist among community pharmacists in Bangladesh. Targeted and continuing education programs are urgently needed to improve antibiotic dispensing practices and reduce antibiotic resistance.