January 12, 2012
The Question
How can antibiotics be administered to maximize their positive impact on patients and minimize the emergence of drug-resistance?
What we found
Analysis suggests that the optimal dosing strategy for most patients, especially those who are likely to become immune to antibiotics, is one that lasts a short duration. However, optimal dosage will vary based on the type of bacterial infection being treated and by the region of the body the bacteria is infecting.
Why it matters
Although antibiotics are extremely useful in treating a variety of diseases, the more they are used, the greater the risk of antibiotic resistance emerging, preventing patients from benefiting further from a drug. This study provides suggestions for making the most of the antibiotics available as well as evidence suggesting that treatment regimens involving antibiotics should not be overly generalized.
