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Updated: May 29, 2026
11:17
Multiplex Therapeutic Drug Monitoring by Isotope-dilution HPLC-MS/MS of Antibiotics in Critical Illnesses
Published on: August 30, 2018
Using antibiotics responsibly: right drug, right time, right dose, right duration
Matthew Dryden1, Alan P Johnson, Diane Ashiru-Oredope
1Department of Microbiology and Communicable Disease, Royal Hampshire County Hospital, Winchester SO22 5DG, UK. matthew.dryden@wehct.nhs.uk
The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy
|September 20, 2011
Summary
Healthcare providers should optimize antibiotic prescribing for better patient care and to combat antibiotic resistance. This involves informed initial decisions and a critical 48-hour review to stop or adjust therapy, ensuring appropriate use.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health threat.
- Prudent antibiotic prescribing is crucial for optimal patient care and minimizing resistance.
- European Antibiotic Awareness Day (EAAD) promotes responsible antibiotic use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To improve antibiotic prescribing practices in secondary care.
- To enhance the quality of initial antibiotic prescribing decisions.
- To emphasize the importance of reviewing antibiotic therapy within 48 hours.
Main Methods:
- Focus on optimal empirical antibiotic selection and dosing.
- Implement a formal 48-hour review of antibiotic therapy.
- Utilize clinical response and microbiology results for review.
- Promote strategies like stopping, switching to oral, or outpatient antibiotic therapy (OPAT).
Main Results:
- The campaign 'Start Smart-Then Focus' aims to guide antibiotic management.
- Ensuring the right drug, dose, and duration for patients.
- Reducing unnecessary antibiotic exposure and selective pressure.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing antibiotic prescribing in secondary care is essential.
- A structured approach to antibiotic review can improve outcomes.
- Coordinated efforts like EAAD are vital for antimicrobial stewardship.
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