antimicrobial resistance
Last reviewed 01/2018
There is an increasing problem of antimicrobial resistance in the community. A letter from the Chief Medical Officer (7/9/98) identified four areas which could make a significant impact on the volume of antimicrobials prescribed:
- antibiotics should not be prescribed for simple coughs and colds
- antibiotics should not be prescribed for viral sore throats
- in cases of uncomplicated cystitis in otherwise fit young women, antibiotics
should only be prescribed for three days
- the prescribing over the telephone of antibiotics should be limited to exceptional cases
Further guidance concerning antibiotic prescribing for self-limiting respiratory tract infections in adults and children in primary care has been given (2).
Reference:
- PL/CMO/98/6 (PL/CNO/98/7 PL/CDO/98/4 PL/CPHO/98/1)
- NICE (June 2008).Respiratory tract infections - antibiotic prescribing for self-limiting respiratory tract infections in adults and children in primary care.
NICE guidance - antibiotic prescribing for self-limiting respiratory tract infections