Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Utilization of Antibiotics in the University Clinical Dentistry Center of Kosovo

The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant disruptions in healthcare services worldwide, including dental care, resulting in increased reliance on antibiotics as a substitute for in-person dental interventions. This study aimed to examine the utilization of different classes of antibiotics at the University Dental Clinical Center of Kosovo during the COVID-19 pandemic and compare it with prescription trends from the pre-pandemic period. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on antibiotic prescription data from the University Dental Clinical Center of Kosovo, spanning from 2019 to 2022. The study compared prescription trends before and during the pandemic and identified the most prescribed antibiotic classes. Additionally, findings were contextualized by reviewing global literature on antibiotic use in dental practices during the pandemic. Results: The study revealed a significant increase in the prescription of broad-spectrum antibiotics, including amoxicillin, clavulanic acid, clindamycin, and metronidazole, during the pandemic period. These findings mirrored global trends, where restricted access to dental care and increased self-medication led to higher antibiotic consumption. Concerns about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) were raised due to the over-prescription of these antibiotics during the pandemic. Conclusions: The study highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental antibiotic prescription practices in Kosovo, revealing a concerning increase in broad-spectrum antibiotic use. This underscores the need for improved antibiotic stewardship in dental settings, particularly during public health crises, to prevent the exacerbation of antimicrobial resistance. Ensuring continued access to routine dental care and developing robust protocols for antibiotic prescription during emergencies are essential to mitigate the long-term public health impacts of increased antibiotic use.