Declining Antibiotic Prescriptions in the U.S., 1999–2012

In a representative U.S. population sample, the proportion with antibiotic use during the preceding 30 days declined from 6.1% in 1999–2002 to 4.1% in 2011–2012.

The relation between inappropriate antibiotic use and the development of antimicrobial resistance has been extensively studied. Monitoring of trends in antimicrobial dispensing is a key element in any nationwide antibiotic-stewardship program.

To examine trends in antibiotic prescribing in the U.S. between 1999 and 2012, researchers used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a continuous, cross-sectional survey conducted by the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics. The sample included 71,444 individuals who could provide complete information on their use of prescription medications.

The proportion of participants who had an antibiotic prescribed during the 30 days preceding the survey interview declined from 6…

Reviewing Author

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection

Thomas Glück, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsConsilium Infectiorum by InfectoPharm, Infection

Declining Antibiotic Prescriptions in the U.S., 1999–2012

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Reviewing Author