Is self-medication with antibiotics in Europe driven by prescribed use?
Our study shows consistent associations between prescribed use and self-medication with antibiotics from leftovers, but has not been able to support the hypothesis that self-medication from other sources than leftovers is triggered by earlier prescribed use. Preventing leftovers may be one effective way of preventing self-medication. This can be achieved by ensuring that the amount dispensed corresponds to the amount prescribed, by educating patients and by making doctors aware that prescribing for minor ailments may increase the risk of self-medication for such ailments.
Thigh circumference in women and hip circumference in both sexes are negatively associated with markers of glucose metabolism independently of the waist circumference, BMI, and age. Both fat and muscle tissues may contribute to these associations.