Strategies to Improve Antimicrobial Utilization with a Special Focus on Developing Countries

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant global threat, increasing morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated antibiotic overuse, highlighting the urgent need for effective AMR containment strategies.
• Addressing AMR is a high priority for international, national, and regional health organizations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review ongoing initiatives aimed at improving antimicrobial utilization across various sectors.
• To identify successful strategies for combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• To highlight the importance of vaccines, including COVID-19 vaccines, in AMR control efforts.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing activities and programs focused on antimicrobial use and AMR reduction.
• Analysis of point prevalence surveys in hospitals to identify areas for quality improvement.
• Examination of educational interventions in ambulatory care settings.

Main Results:

• Point prevalence surveys have successfully guided quality improvement programs, particularly antimicrobial stewardship programs in hospitals.
• Educational initiatives have proven effective in reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for viral infections in ambulatory care.
• There is a critical need for new quality indicators and public health messaging for ambulatory care to combat misinformation.

Conclusions:

• Effective AMR containment requires a multi-sectoral approach, including robust antimicrobial stewardship and targeted educational programs.
• Public health messaging is essential to combat misinformation, especially during pandemics.
• Ensuring regular access to effective treatments for diseases like HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis is vital for reducing resistance.