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Updated: Sep 26, 2026

Antimicrobial Synergy Testing by the Inkjet Printer-assisted Automated Checkerboard Array and the Manual Time-kill Method
Published on: April 18, 2019
[Newer antibiotics--missed efficacy in false indications]
1Medizinische Klinik, Kantonsspital Zug.
Abstract:
Various reports indicate conclusively that antibiotics are used much too frequently and physicians often prefer broad spectrum compounds for "safety reasons". Symptoms of viral infections of the respiratory tract such as fever, cough and runny nose are often reason enough to start antibiotic regimens leading to increased costs and finally to development of resistance. Some newly developed antibiotics, often with unique properties will be discussed in this paper emphasizing potential problems associated with their uncritical use.
Insights
Antibiotics are overused for viral respiratory infections, increasing costs and resistance. Uncritical use of new antibiotics with unique properties poses significant risks.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
Context:
- Widespread overuse of antibiotics is documented globally.
- Physicians frequently prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics due to perceived safety.
- Viral respiratory infections are often inappropriately treated with antibiotics.
Purpose:
- To highlight the excessive use of antibiotics.
- To discuss the implications of antibiotic resistance.
- To emphasize potential issues with novel antibiotic agents.
Summary:
- Overprescription of antibiotics for viral respiratory illnesses is common, driven by physician preference for broad-spectrum agents.
- This practice leads to increased healthcare costs and contributes to the critical rise of antibiotic resistance.
- The paper will examine newly developed antibiotics and the risks associated with their indiscriminate application.
Impact:
- Promoting judicious antibiotic stewardship.
- Mitigating the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance.
- Informing clinical practice regarding the appropriate use of both existing and novel antibiotics.
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