A Guide to Smarter, Safer Antibiotic Use

 

New York Times, March 22nd, 2011
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/22/health/22brody.html?scp=12&sq=Health&st=nyt

This article warns readers of the dangers of the misuse of antibiotics in terms of over-prescription, incorrect usage by patients, and overuse in food production animals. These practices and techniques have led to antibacterial drugs losing their effectiveness, ultimately becoming useless before new ones can even be developed to replace them. According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 100,000 people die annually in the U.S. due to hospital-acquired infections that are resistant to antibiotics. These concerns have led to the development of a "Symposium on Antimicrobial Therapy" by Dr. Zelalem Temesgen, an infectious disease specialist. This 15-part series hopes to help physicians learn about proper management techniques with antibiotics in terms of prescription. The report includes different factors that could influence prescription of antibiotics including kidney and liver function, age, pregnancy and nursing, drug allergy and intolerance, recent antibiotic use, genetic characteristics, and cultural values.

This article brings to a light a great report and program that is solving one of today's major public health concerns. Antibiotic overuse in the medical and agricultural realms poses significant risk for consumers and animals alike. Education is the most necessary tool in order to raise awareness and lead practictioners to better administer these drugs. This symposium will not only lead to antibiotic resistance becoming less prevalent, but can save money and lives and money by reducing adverse drug reactions and eliminating or shortening hospital stays.