Changes in prescriptions and antibiotic consumption after the implementation of recommendations for use: experience in a university hospital

Abstract

Background: Nowadays about half of antibiotic prescriptions are inadequate, increasing bacterial resistance. Both cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones are associated with this phenomenon: increase of β-lactamase producing bacteria and Clostridioides difficile infections, which is why regulatory agencies seek to rationalize their use. Aim: To evaluate the effect of use recommendations on the proportion of inadequate prescriptions of ceftriaxone and fluoroquinolones. Methods: A prospective and interventional study was developed, comparing the quality and quantity of use of ceftriaxone and fluoroquinolones before and after the implementation of use recommendations for treatments of infectious diseases acquired at the community. The outcomes were: proportion of inadequate prescriptions and defined daily dose (DDD). Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, Fisher’s correction and Student’s test. Results: A total of 206 patients were evaluated, a 35% decrease in inadequate prescriptions, a decline in the consumption of ceftriaxone and levofloxacin, and a significant increase in the use of ampicillin/ sulbactam was observed. Conclusions: The implementation of use recommendations based on scientific evidence and local susceptibility allowed to reduce the proportion of inadequate prescriptions and to reduce de consumption of ceftriaxone and fluoroquinolones.