Antibiotic use in a Canadian Province, 1995-1998

Antibiotics are among the most commonly used classes of agents in community practice; yet, studies of antibiotic use in this setting are scarce. Data from developed countries suggest increasing use of newer broad-spectrum agents, which has implications for the development of antibiotic resistance as well as cost of therapy. In this study, we quantified changing patterns of antibiotic use in community practice in Manitoba, Canada, from 1995 to 1998.

A descriptive, population-based study of antibiotic use in Manitoba was facilitated by the Drug Programs Information Network (DPIN) of Manitoba Health; a data management system responsible for recording details of prescriptions dispensed for all Manitoba residents. Antibiotic use data, defined as numbers of prescriptions dispensed, were extracted from the DPIN from January 1, 1995, to March 31, 1998. Antibiotic use is reported as prescriptions per 1000 persons per year (Rx/1000/Yr) based on quarterly use.

Penicillins (48.3%), macrolides (16.0%), and sulfonamides (12.5%) accounted for 75% of total antibiotic use; total use decreased 19.1% between 1995 and 1998. Use of the four most commonly prescribed agents decreased over the study period (amoxicillin, -17.4%; erythromycin, -29.0%; trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, -18.7%; penicillins G and V, -19.2%). In contrast, use of newer and/or broad-spectrum agents increased (ciprofloxacin, 21.9%; cefuroxime, 30.7%; and azithromycin/clarithromycin, 29.5%). Use of second-line agents as a percentage of total antibiotic use increased from 14.4% to 19.3% between January 1995 and March 1998 (p < 0.001).

Penicillins, macrolides, and sulfonamides accounted for 75% of antibiotic use. Total antibiotic use declined over the study period; however, use of newer, broad-spectrum agents increased while use of older, narrow-spectrum agents decreased.