Using a Shared Decision-Making Tool in Pharmacies to Guide Antibiotic Use for Acute Cystitis in Women Aged 18 to 65

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on women aged 18 to 65 with symptoms of acute cystitis without risk of complication. It aims to evaluate whether using a shared decision-making tool in pharmacies can help patients better understand the benefits and risks of taking antibiotics and adjust antibiotic use accordingly. The goal is to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions while still selecting patients who truly need treatment. Participants are divided into two groups. One group follows the standard French delegation protocol for acute cystitis management by pharmacists, which recommends systematic antibiotic therapy. The other group uses the same protocol supplemented with a shared decision-making tool to decide if antibiotics should be given based on patient preferences after being informed. This study compares antibiotic dispensing between these groups. After diagnosis and consent, patients receive care according to their group assignment. Researchers collect data on antibiotic prescriptions and patient demographics. Participants are followed up by phone 14 days later to assess antibiotic use, symptom impact using the Activity Impairment Assessment scale, satisfaction, decision confidence via the OConnor scale, and any medical visits. Antibiotic dispensing is tracked through national pharmacy records. The study runs from May 2026 to November 2026.

Dispensing of Antibiotics in Pharmacies for Cystitis According to a Delegation Protocol, Impact of a Decision Support Tool. PHARIBO: PHarmacy and Resolved Antibiotherapy for Urinary Tract Infections