Improving antibiotic prescribing for children in the resource-poor setting

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Pediatric Pharmacology
• Antimicrobial Stewardship

Background:

• Antibiotics are essential for treating infectious diseases, the primary cause of mortality in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Inappropriate antibiotic use, including incorrect prescribing and patient adherence, is widespread globally, contributing to antimicrobial resistance.
• LMICs face significant challenges in implementing policies for rational antibiotic use in pediatric care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the challenges and strategies for rational antibiotic prescribing in pediatric populations within LMICs.
• To highlight the impact of inappropriate antibiotic use on antimicrobial resistance and child mortality.
• To discuss future developments that could enhance antibiotic prescribing in LMICs.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and World Health Organization (WHO) initiatives related to pediatric medicine use in LMICs.
• Analysis of barriers to rational antibiotic prescribing in resource-limited settings.
• Discussion of strategies for improving access to appropriate medications and clinical guidelines.

Main Results:

• Inappropriate antibiotic use is a major concern in LMICs, exacerbating antimicrobial resistance.
• WHO initiatives like 'Make medicines child size' are crucial steps but require continued support.
• Persistent barriers hinder the effective implementation of rational prescribing policies.

Conclusions:

• Improving access to appropriate pediatric formulations and strengthening evidence-based guidelines are essential for rational antibiotic use in LMICs.
• Addressing inappropriate antibiotic use is critical to combatting antimicrobial resistance and reducing child mortality.
• Future developments must focus on sustainable strategies to enhance pediatric antibiotic prescribing in resource-limited settings.