Evolution of antibiotic consumption in pediatric outpatients of Asturias, Spain (2005-2018)

Data about consumption of antibiotics in Spain are worrisome. They are mainly prescribed in the community sector and there is a high exposure to antibiotics in the pediatric population. The aim of this study is to describe the evolution of antibiotic consumption in the pediatric population of Asturias during 2005-2018 period.

Retrospective and descriptive study using data about consumption of antibacterial agents for systemic use (J01 group of the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification) in pediatric outpatients in Asturias between 2005 and 2018. Data, expressed as defined daily dose (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants per day (DID), in three periods were compared.

Mean antibiotic consumption in pediatric outpatients in Asturias (2005-2018) was 14 DID (CI95% 13.4-14.6). Consumption increased until 2009 (15.2 DID) and decreased from 2015 onwards (11.9 DID in 2018). Remarkable data along the study were: 1) increase in amoxicillin consumption (p = 0.027), that have exceeded that of amoxicillin-clavulanate since 2011; 2) steady consumption of macrolides, with an increase in azithromycin (p < 0.001) and a decrease in clarithromycin (p = 0.001); 3) reduction of cephalosporins consumption (p < 0.001); 4) increase in quinolones consumption (p = 0.002).

Global antibiotic consumption in pediatric outpatients in Asturias between 2005 and 2018 has experienced a constant decrease lately and an improvement in patterns of antibacterial use.