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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
11:17
Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Differences in antibiotic prescribing in paediatric outpatients
Antonio Clavenna1, Maurizio Bonati
1Laboratory for Mother and Child Health, Department of Public Health, Mario Negri Institute for Pharmacological Research, Via La Masa 19, Milan, Italy. mother_child@marionegri.it
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|January 15, 2011
Summary
Antibiotic prescribing varies significantly across different countries and regions, with preschool children receiving the most prescriptions. Understanding these geographical differences is key to improving antibiotic use and combating antimicrobial resistance.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Antibiotics are the most frequently prescribed medications globally.
- Prescription rates vary by age, with young children having the highest exposure, particularly in community settings.
- Understanding variations in antibiotic prescribing is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare antibiotic prescription profiles at multinational, national, and regional levels.
- To identify quantitative and qualitative differences in antibiotic drug utilization.
- To inform strategies for rational antibiotic use.
Main Methods:
- A review of drug-utilization studies was conducted.
- The study analyzed antibiotic prescription patterns across various geographical scales.
- Data were synthesized to identify trends and variations.
Main Results:
- Significant quantitative and qualitative differences in antibiotic prescribing were observed between and within countries.
- Prescription patterns also varied at local levels and among individual prescribers.
- Second-choice antibiotics, such as cephalosporins, were more common in high-prescription areas.
Conclusions:
- Geographical variations in antibiotic prescribing necessitate tailored approaches.
- Monitoring antimicrobial resistance must consider these geographical differences.
- Educational interventions for healthcare professionals and parents are needed to promote rational antibiotic use.
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