[Five-year analysis of extrahospital consumption of betalactams in Spain]

We carried out a qualitative and quantitative study to determine extrahospital consumption of both broad-spectrum penicillins and cephalosporins in Spain in the period 1993-1997. Penicillins were the most consumed group, followed by macrolides and cephalosporins. Units and value (ptas.) of penicillins and cephalosporins during these five years show interannual variations. Nevertheless, monthly analysis of consumption for both groups showed a stable tendency, with peaks in winter months and drops in the summer. Both penicillins (54.38%) and cephalosporins (27.71%) were prescribed mainly for upper respiratory tract infections. Men received more penicillins and cephalosporins than women (51.02% and 55.09%). Children under 11 years were the main group for consumption of both types of antibiotic, while patients aged 55-64 years were the group with the least consumption.