Duration of antibiotic therapy in Gram-negative infections with a particular focus on multidrug-resistant pathogens

Sara F Haddad1, Fatima Allaw, Souha S Kanj

  • 1Division of Infectious Diseases, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut , Lebanon.

Abstract

Insights

Short antibiotic therapy (SAT) may reduce antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and side effects for Gram-negative bacilli (GNB) infections. However, optimal treatment duration (DOT) for multidrug-resistant GNB infections requires further research.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pharmacology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Antimicrobial overuse is a significant global health concern, driving antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
  • Infections caused by Gram-negative bacilli (GNB), especially multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRs), lead to severe illness and fatalities, particularly in vulnerable patients.
  • Optimal duration of treatment (DOT) for GNB infections is critical for effective management and combating resistance.

Conclusions:

  • The optimal DOT for GNB infections is not definitively established and varies by infection type and pathogen.
  • Short antibiotic therapy (SAT) shows promise in mitigating AMR and side effects.
  • Further research is essential to determine the optimal DOT for multidrug-resistant GNB (MDR-GNB) infections.

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